Today we’d like to introduce you to Misha.
Misha, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The Many Arms of Misha was established in the late ’90s in New Orleans, initially focusing on graphic design and sign painting for local businesses during the slower summer seasons of the tattoo industry.
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.
My business, operates as both an art gallery and a private tattoo studio. We have been serving the community for over ten years, specializing in cover-up tattoos and scar concealment. Our expertise includes working with mastectomy scars, gender-affirming scars, and self-harm scars. We focus on helping our clients feel confident and empowered in their skin through unique and meaningful artwork.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Our biggest obstacle in 2025 is rebuilding client confidence amid economic uncertainty. Tattoos are often viewed as a luxury, and when the economy declines, clients tend to limit discretionary spending. During the last term of the current administration, our business experienced a 30% drop in revenue. To adapt, we are focusing on diversification—expanding our offerings to include original artwork and promoting smaller tattoos or shorter sessions that are more accessible to clients during tighter financial times.
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 three times, each move to a larger space to accommodate our expanding business.
Over the years, we’ve learned to adapt during times like these by leaning into our strengths and expanding our platform. One key pivot has been emphasizing the artistic side of our business. We’re not just a tattoo studio—we’re a creative hub.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in transformative tattooing—covering scars and old ink with new life. Many of my clients are walking away from painful pasts: gang affiliations, prison identities, abusive relationships, or bodies marked by trauma and surgery. My role isn’t just to design tattoos; it’s to help people reclaim ownership of their bodies and stories. Every cover-up is an act of healing, and I’m honored to be part of that process.
Some of our clients come from challenging beginnings—broken families, exposure to drugs, or involvement in gangs. The choices made during those difficult times often leave lasting marks, both emotionally and physically.
Roughly 10% to 15% of the cover-ups I do are for old gang or drug-related tattoos. These tattoos serve as painful reminders of a past our clients are working hard to leave behind.
By covering these tattoos, we’re not just transforming skin—we’re helping people reclaim their identity and take confident steps toward a more positive future. It’s more than ink; it’s a fresh start.
What matters most to you? Why?
Our mission is to create a high-quality, safe, and welcoming space where every client can enjoy a one-of-a-kind tattoo experience.
For far too long, tattoo shops have carried the stigma of being part of a seedy, underground culture. We’re here to change that.
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 your first tattoo or your fiftieth, we’re committed to making your experience personal, comfortable, and memorable.
Pricing:
- My Rate is $250 an hour with a one hour Minimum
- I offer a FREE 1 1/2 hour Consultation where the client and I go over what they like and don’t like about their tattoo and what can be done to create a tattoo that they will love
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.misha-art.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecountessofcoverups/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TattoosByMisha
- Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mishatattooart.bsky.social
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063696904906
Image Credits
All Photos By the Artist
