Meet Ali Richey | Tattoo Artist

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

Hi Ali, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
When you become your own manager and employee, it’s very easy to become lax in your schedule, and so setting goals and deadlines that would normally be set for you makes a huge impact in productivity and overall success. I believe that discipline with time management has been the biggest contributing factor to my success in the tattoo industry.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
From drawing stick figures in kindergarten, to painting murals on tables and homes, I have always had an appreciation for art. I feel that with the saturation of the tattoo industry, some have become desensitized to how much of an honor it is to be able to bring an idea to life on a person’s skin. I am constantly researching the greats and their techniques to continue to grow and perfect my craft. When moving into my upgraded studio, it wasn’t easy to believe that I would be able to handle the added responsibility, but word of mouth is such a powerful tool. I’ve learned that those referrals are so meaningful and being present and aware of my clients’ individual needs is extremely important and cannot be taken lightly. I want the world to know that when they work with me, I strive to make them feel that they have my full attention to detail, and that if they want an artist, friend, or even a therapist, I’m the gal for them.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love this question so much! I was born and raised in Arizona, and the best part about this state is that you can be in the desert, or you can drive just out of town, and you’re suddenly in the forest. I would, of course, bring them to the Grand Canyon, and down through Sedona to see the beautiful mountains and local vendors. If they’re my best friend, they would definitely want to go hiking like I do, so I would bring them to Cibecue Falls, Waterwheel Falls, and Fossil Springs. I’m also a big foodie, so stretchy pants are a must if I’m showing them around; some of my go-tos would have to be Chanpen Thai Cuisine, Cafe Lalibela, RnR Scottsdale, and Cortez Coffee.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, I have to thank my clients for believing in me and trusting me with the creative freedom to put my artwork on them. I also wouldn’t be this motivated without the support of my family and the feedback they’ve provided for my growth. Of course, the countless hours of podcasts have helped to keep me entertained while drawing designs. Finally, I have a special shout-out to the book As a Man Thinketh by James Allen, which has given me the mindset that if I believe, I can achieve anything I put my mind to.

Website: https://karmapawinks.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karmapawinks/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ohsolovelyali

Other: Ali@KarmaPawInks.com