Meet Kristie Latimore: Tattooer and Fine Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristie Latimore and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kristie, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I have always been a risk-taker. I’ve never been one to shy away from a good challenge or push myself harder when facing adversity. I believe that life’s most precious lessons are learned through hardship and perseverance. In 2009, when I began to pursue a career in tattooing, it was a different world for women trying to break into the industry. I experienced my share of discrimination, sexual harassment, misogyny, and degradation while looking for an apprenticeship. Thankfully, this experience drove me to work twice as hard and take the necessary risks to be successful and become a mentor to other young women with the same aspirations. I am thankful for the experience, as it made me the strong woman I am today.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I was an aspiring artist at a young age. I started off painting portraits and custom pieces for friends and family. However, I was always interested in tattooing and the culture behind it. I’m proud that now in addition to painting, I am able to design custom pieces that my clients can enjoy and show off forever. I enjoy being able to have a personal one-on-one experience with each client.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am very grateful to have friends all over the world that visit frequently. Most of my friend group listens to heavy metal, and the first stop when I have visitors in town is typically Black Sky Brewery in the Baker neighborhood of Denver. We commonly refer to Black Sky as our “home base”. They have killer pizza, beer, music, and atmosphere. It goes without saying that any visitor should get themselves anywhere in the Rocky Mountains. I always take my guests to Rocky Mountain National Park and the beautiful town of Estes Park. Red Rocks Amphitheater is also a must-see.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, my mom deserves a huge shoutout for nurturing my creativity my entire life. She never pushed me to pursue anything that wasn’t totally fulfilling, and I will always be eternally grateful to her! I also have to give recognition to my fantastic studio-mates at Keepsake Tattoo. They have created a wonderful atmosphere where everyone’s creativity can flourish.

Website: www.kristielatimoreart.com
Instagram: instagram.com/kristie_latimore_art
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/kristie-latimore-tattoos-and-fine-art-lakewood

Image Credits
Alisha Light