SHAWNA MCCARTHY

An all around nerd, Shawna draws much of her inspiration from graphic novels, video games, cartoons and DnD art. While her favorite styles include painterly, etched black work, illustrative and neotraditional, she also ventures into abstract, watercolor, and split complimentary designs.

  • She LOVES creating custom pieces; especially those involving flora/fauna. If you have a vague concept in mind that still needs some honing - she's ready to help bring your ideas to life!

  • Multimedia but usually centers around watercolor, acrylic, and colored pencils with love for metallic elements


Before submitting your Tattoo project proposal please consider the following.


Coverups of existing tattoos or scars.

I enjoy the challenge. For your project to be considered, you will need to include photos of your existing tattoos/scars, and a description of what you might like to cover them with. Not all tattoos are good candidates for coverups, and not all designs are good candidates either. Based on the age, size, texture and pigmentation of your tattoo, I can make design recommendations in the interest of ideal long-term results. I will decide whether to accept these projects on a case-by-case basis. Once your proposal has been accepted, an in-person consultation and 100$ drawing fee will be required. Coverups are often multi-stage projects, and may require 2-3 sessions to complete. Please inquire only if you are dedicated to seeing the project through to the end.

General tattoo design.

New tattoo proposals are always welcome! Requests that are well-suited to my style preferences will receive priority. Larger projects will require an in-person consultation, while smaller designs can sometimes be discussed through email. In either case, you will need to submit a thorough description of your tattoo idea to be considered. Please include references, as well as size and placement in your description. Include photos of your skin if you have tattoos, or any conditions that may affect tattooing (such as hyperpigmentation, vitiligo, scars, freckles, moles, skin tags, eczema, psoriasis) in that area. If you are traveling or have time/availability constraints, it is wise to reach out as soon as possible to secure an appointment date. Designing occurs only after a drawing fee of either $60 or $100 has been collected. This deposit is based on the complexity of the design, and is non-refundable. It will secure your appointment date. I am happy to send a concept drawing prior to your scheduled appointment to make sure we're on the same page. Changes can be made once with adequate notice, or again for an additional drawing fee. Not all projects will be accepted, but each will be considered individually. I field all emails personally so please be patient if you do not receive an immediate response to your inquiry.

Reference images.

Please include references in your project proposal/request. References (especially photos of tattoos) will not be copied directly, but can be used as inspiration to communicate style, color, or compositions you've envisioned. Please include what it is you like about any reference images you submit - it is extremely helpful during the design process and will help me to narrow down your preferences.

Fixing or finishing other artist work.

I do not generally like to take over another artist's work. However, I understand that it is not always feasible to return to your original artist. I advise you make every reasonable attempt to come to an amicable solution with that person first. You may send photos of your existing work, along with the name of your prior artist and the reason why you are not finishing your tattoo with them if you would like to be considered. I may take on individual projects in certain circumstances.

CONTACT SHAWNA