Lighthouse Artist Spotlight: Harriet

Hello readers!

My name is Harriet, and I have been tattooing at Lighthouse Studio since 2021. For those searching for their next or first tattoo artist, I thought I would take the time to introduce myself and see if we would be a good fit to create some amazing art together!

Q: What inspires you as an artist?

I've always loved finding inspiration from the past, which makes sense that I have picked traditional tattooing as my specialism. I love the feeling of taking something from before and carrying that forwards into modern art, connecting different generations of art and people through culture. Of course, I draw inspiration from the traditional legends like Sailor Jerry and Bert Grimm, but I'm also inspired by the illustrations and art of many eras such as Victorian greeting cards or 1920s advertising. I find the romantic subjects captured in these translate timelessly to tattooing.

I am also inspired greatly by my own passions in life such as animals, people and pop culture references. I mix these all together to make my own style of traditional tattooing.

Q: What's your favourite thing to tattoo?

I especially love tattooing anything that tells a story whether it be an animal, a face, a hand, an object. I like to bring expression into these pieces and create a feeling of narrative. It feels like the art has a soul of its own.

But to be honest, I adore tattooing traditionally, so throw anything my way in my style and I'll be a very passionate and happy artist!

Q: How did you become a tattoo artist?

I did an apprenticeship in my home town in Oxfordshire, where I learnt from the ground up. It was actually in the studio where small Harriet sat watching her mum and dad get tattooed, which was a cool full circle moment. Lots of sweeping, mopping, cleaning and tattoo observation over my mentors shoulder! I learnt lots of different styles of tattooing so I'm happy to tattoo outside of my specialism which keeps things interesting! I still do lots of delicate fine line pieces weekly as they are a popular staple and one of the first styles I was taught!

Q: Have you always wanted to be a tattoo artist?

One thing about me that often surprises my clients when we discuss my path to tattooing is that I began in the education sector. At College and University, I studied to be a primary school teacher. From a working class background, I made this life choice based on financial stability not passion. It was only following this path and knowing what living the wrong dream felt like, that I did a massive pivot as my graduation came up.  I'm so glad I realised that although the art industry can be a massive leap of faith, it was one worth taking. Art had always been my true passion and love. I'm glad for my years doing the wrong thing, because it not only gives me deep appreciation for what I do now but also taught me a level of professionalism that I take pride in.

Q: What's something you would want clients to know when booking in with you?

When booking in any tattoo, I would want clients to know that tattooing is about advocating and making space for yourself. I hear so many clients worry about moving the stencil or changing the design because of the inconvenience to the artist, but I welcome and enjoy my clients feeling confident and self assured to make meaningful decisions for themselves. You shouldn't feel uncomfortable or pressured in any way during the tattooing process. This can also include asking for silent sessions, bringing along a book or fidget toy or asking for breaks whenever you need them! I want my clients to know and feel that it's a safe place when you're booking in with me.

Q: Why did you choose to work at Lighthouse?

Lighthouse caught my attention for a few reasons. First, it was the fact that it was a Vegan tattoo shop, which aligns perfectly with me! It's such a fantastic approach to tattooing that attracts so many clients who want no cruelty included in their tattoo.

Secondly, it was the people. The staff at Lighthouse are approachable, knowledgeable and quite often silly. I immediately felt welcomed and accepted and knew the scary move to Brighton wouldn't be so bad being part of this supportive team. I've learnt and grown so much from being with them.

Third, the studio space. The location being dead centre of Brighton was a perfect way to get to know the city and be right in the mix! It's such a convenient spot for clients and spontaneous walk-ins who are out enjoying our beautiful city. The bright orange shop itself is so charming and cosy. It's a great place to spend my days drawing and creating tattoos!

Thanks for reading! If you have any queries or want to book in a tattoo, you can reach me directly on my Instagram (@harriethopetattoos) or contact the studio by telephone or email!