Tara Shinn
“Tara combines technical excellence with creative vision through an extensive study of traditional as well as experimental drawing processes. Her meticulously rendered multilayered works relate to an interest in identity, transformation, and tattoo arts.”
~2014 GMU Undergrad Academic and Artistic Achievement Award

My artistic career began further back than I can recall – my parents always made sure I had a pencil and paper near me. That was standard equipment for everyday life growing up; I felt odd without it. It wasn’t until High School that the thought of becoming a tattoo artist occurred to me. I began by drawing on my friends in between classes with pens and sharpies. They put the thought into my head, and I ran with it.
I hit my artistic stride in college, at George Mason University. I was fortunate enough to have phenomenal professors that challenged me in every way possible. I graduated in May of 2014, and was surprised with the honor of receiving the Undergraduate Academic and Artistic Achievement Award.
My tattooing career began in August of 2011, and I tested and received my license in the state of Virginia in May of 2014. American Traditional and Illustrative tattooing have been my main influences, though I strive to push my tattoo work in my own unique ways. I am ecstatic to be doing what I love every day, and I am always pushing myself to be better.
FAQ
How do I set up an appointment with Tara?
Tara books the year roughly by quarters (Jan-March, April-June, etc), and to manage this she chooses to open and close her books as she sees appropriate. Her Instagram booking status gets updated first (@TattoosByTara) so make sure to follow her there. She does not currently have a newsletter for booking alerts, but she’ll post as soon as she has one set up!
What should I bring to my consultation?
When can I see my tattoo design?
How much do tattoos cost?
BOOKS CLOSED!
Keep an eye on her IG for when her books will open again @TattoosByTara
She may not reply to any new inquiry contacts.
Contact Form for Tattoos by Tara LLC
RICK’S TATTOO PARLOR
4818 Lee Hwy, Arlington, VA 22207
(703) 527-8377
By Appointment Only
For inquiries that do not pertain to this form, you may email TarantulaArts@gmail.com