Calypso Ink Tattoo has reopened at South Church House in Market Square, Newark, and its owner, Scarlet Meade, is thrilled to be back in business. Scarlet, a talented tattooist, is ready to showcase her artistic skills and cater to all styles of inkwork.
Scarlet opened Calypso Ink Tattoo in February 2023. She had to close the shop in November last year to go on maternity leave. After taking care of herself and her baby, she resumed her work in April 2024.
Scarlet began tattooing in 2021. Opening her own studio was a dream come true, as she has always loved art, practicing it both in school and at home. She worked as a tattoo artist in Birmingham and Lincoln before starting her own business in Newark.
“When I moved back to Lincoln, I was trained in all styles of tattooing so I could eventually choose a specialty,” Scarlet said. “I decided I enjoyed many different styles, which keeps my job interesting and motivates me to practice my art when drawing designs at home.”
Building her clientele has been a challenge, especially after her time off for maternity leave, but Scarlet is optimistic about rebuilding it. “It can be daunting at times since it’s a competitive industry,” she admitted.
Her studio is designed to be a bright and quiet space, offering a peaceful atmosphere for clients. Scarlet believes her versatility in tattoo styles makes her studio special. “I take time and care with each design, whether it’s custom or not, and I’ll change it as many times as the client wants to make it perfect.”
Opening her studio was a long process, involving decorating, buying new furniture, products, and equipment, managing clinical waste bins, and getting a license approved from the council. “It takes a lot, but it is so worth it,” she said.