Misha shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Misha, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
A Safe Space to Heal.
Until I started focusing mainly on cover-ups, I hadn’t realized just how many tattoo studios fail to create a truly safe space for their clients. Many shops feature multiple artists working in a large, open area with loud music, where it can feel uncomfortable or even unsafe to ask for accommodations—like turning down the music or requesting a bit of privacy, especially if the client is getting tattooed in a vulnerable area of their body. For some, these tattoos are not just about ink—they’re about healing.
Many clients come to me to cover up tattoos tied to emotional experiences, and they’re often in a very vulnerable state. I strive to make their session not only about transforming their tattoo, but also about offering a space where they can feel safe and supported in their healing process.
We strive to create a high-quality, safe, and welcoming space where every client can enjoy a one-of-a-kind tattoo experience.
Our studio is calm, clean, and inviting — a place where clients can relax, feel heard, and open up about the meaningful art they want on their bodies. Whether it’s their first tattoo or fiftieth, we’re committed to making your experience personal, comfortable, and memorable.
Oh, and yes — we even serve tea.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi I’m Misha!
With nearly 40 years as a Fine Artist and over 30 years in the Tattoo industry, I’ve dedicated my life to transforming creative vision into lasting expression. After decades of working under others and refining my style, my former mentor gave me the encouragement I needed: “It’s time to spread your wings.” That moment was the spark that led to opening my own studio.
Together with my husband — who brings sharp business sense to match my creative fire — we opened our studio as a space where art, trust, and individuality come together. While he manages the operations, I pour my energy into each client and canvas, ensuring every piece is deeply personal and masterfully executed.
Our studio isn’t just a business — it’s the result of a lifetime of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to creating art that lasts.
We have proudly owned and operated a women-led business for over a decade in an industry traditionally dominated by men. Throughout these 10 years, we’ve not only weathered the challenges of the pandemic but emerged even stronger and busier than before. Our continued growth has led us to relocate two times, each move to a larger space to accommodate our expanding business.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
In my early teens, I had long hair. I didn’t really know what to do with it and wanted a change, so I cut it from mid-back length to just above my shoulders. I liked it. A few days later, I bumped into a guy I really liked. He looked at me and said, ‘You cut your hair.’ I excitedly said, ‘Yes!’ Then, without another word, he shut the door to the classroom in my face and never spoke to me again.
That moment taught me an important lesson that shaped who I am today: you can’t please everyone. And in trying to, you can lose yourself. It’s better for someone to dislike you for who you truly are, than to like you for a version you’re pretending to be.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, and I’m so glad I didn’t give up.
There was a time in my career when I was working for an extremely abusive boss, doing tattoos I didn’t enjoy on clients who were also difficult. I reached my breaking point. I quit that job and spent a year doing sporadic tattooing and graphic design work to make ends meet. I felt broken, and for a while, I blamed tattooing for that feeling.
But over time, I realized it wasn’t tattooing—it was a bad boss and an unhealthy environment that stifled my creativity. Moving away and working in better shops with supportive bosses helped me rediscover my love for the craft.
Opening my own shop with my husband was a game-changer. Once I was able to create an environment that I controlled, I built a place I genuinely love going to every day.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, I am always me. I’m neurodivergent and was raised by neurodivergent parents, so I wasn’t taught to mask myself at home. I don’t always pick up on social cues or body language, so I never quite got the hang of changing who I am to fit the environment. I may come across as socially awkward at times, but I’m always true to myself.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Most days, I’m genuinely excited to go to work. I have so many wonderful clients and fun projects to tattoo. There’s something powerful about transforming a tattoo or scar that carries physical or emotional weight into something they love and something that helps them heal.
Often, cover-up clients become regulars, returning to work with me on tattoo projects they’d been putting off until after their cover-up. Many days I look at my schedule and feel not only excited about the tattoos I get to create, but also grateful for the people I get to see.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.misha-art.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecountessofcoverups/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TattoosByMisha
- Other: https://bsky.app/profile/mishatattooart.bsky.social
Image Credits
All Photos by Misha
