Shannon Kuzara has held a deep love for creating art— whether drawing, painting, or crafting—for as long as she can remember. Her pursuit of studio art classes in high school and college further fostered her interest in a wide range of artistic mediums. shannon’s entry into the world of tattooing came on her 18th birthday and getting her first tattoo—an anchor—at Twisted Tiki Tattoo in Tonawanda, New York. in drawing alongside her now-husband Keith kuzara every night while they were dating, her interest in pursuing a career connected to her love for art blossomed. In 2013, she began an apprenticeship under Dan Whipkey, then-owner of Sink or Swim, and still remembers one of her assignments—recreating an entire wall of old Sailor Jerry tattoo flash. shannon later became co-owner of Sink or Swim with Keith, who purchased the studio from Whipkey in 2015.

Shannons distinctive approach to NeoTraditional tattoos is characterized by a vibrant color palette and unique, stylistic approach. shannon’s style emphasizes different line weights to create dimension and features bright, eye-catching colors that allow her designs to stand out dramatically. She draws this passion for creating bright tattoos that “can be visible from across a room” from her childhood love for the bright aesthetic of Lisa Frank. In addition to tattooing, shannon has a wide range of artistic pursuits, including watercolor paintings of landscapes from around the world she has visited, reflecting her love of travel and experiencing other cultures. A lifelong passion for crafting and creating something tangible continues to inspire her, and her small, detailed art pieces showcase her meticulous attention to detail.

check out her work on instagram @shanoodle