Daily Inspiration: Meet Kate Montgomery

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kate Montgomery.

Hi Kate, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have always been an artist. I have studied many mediums throughout my fine art education, but I was always drawn to the art of tattooing as well as its rich history and cultural significance worldwide. Once I began getting tattoos of my own, I started really being able to see myself in the industry. I used my previous artworks to put together a portfolio, and I was lucky enough that my own tattoo artist at the time took me under her wing and showed me the ropes. This is when I really dedicated myself to learning the craft in depth.

I now have my own private studio where hundreds of people put their trust in me to convert their experiences into permanent artwork. Over the years, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the personal connection that comes with tattooing—it’s so much more than just design, it’s storytelling. I get to create art that people carry with them forever. It is a powerful fusion of art and human connection.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I would say that my path within the tattoo industry has not always been easy. Being a queer woman in this male dominated field has meant pushing against a lot of walls that were never built with people like me in mind. Early on, I had to fight to be taken seriously—not just as an artist, but as someone who belonged in the shop at all. There’s a heavy ‘bro’ culture in a lot of tattoo spaces, and it can feel like you’re constantly walking a line between not being “too feminine” to be respected and not being “too masculine” to be palatable.

I had to learn how to carve that space out for myself. That meant not only proving my talent but also creating safer, more inclusive environments for my clients—especially other queer and marginalized people who have also felt out of place in traditional shops.

The struggles have been an uphill battle, but they’ve shaped the kind of artist—and person—I am. They’ve pushed me to build community, advocate for change in the industry, and use my art as a way to reclaim space and identity for myself and others. It’s not always easy, but it’s powerful work. And it’s worth it. Today, I’m grateful to be able to bring people’s stories to life through tattoos, combining creativity, precision, and purpose in every piece.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My work consists mostly of blackwork and fineline stylized subject matters including illustrative elements of nature and whimsical themes. Most of my tattoo portfolio consists of delicate designs that feature flora, fauna, and other detailed motifs. I typically operate with black ink only, breaking out my colored ink bottles here and there. You can see all of my work displayed on my instagram @Kate_Inks_ as well as detailed descriptions of my policies and pricing. Instagram is the best way to contact me as well!

We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something surprising that people might not know is that I actually started out studying sustainability and environmental science before ever picking up a tattoo machine. My love for the planet has always been a core part of who I am, leading to me earning my Bachelor’s of Science in Sustainability from Arizona State University. Alongside my minor in Studio Art, this degree naturally found its way into my tattoo practice. That background is what drives me to use biodegradable substitutes, compostable or reusable supplies, and to source everything I can from sustainable, low-impact producers. Most tattoo practices use single use plastics for almost every supply in order to keep things sanitary. For me, tattooing isn’t just about the art—it’s about creating beautiful work in a way that respects both the body and the Earth. In my opinion, creativity should not come at the planet’s expense.

Pricing:

• Size of a quarter or smaller: $75+
• Size of a business card or smaller: $125+
• Palm size or smaller: $175+
• Two hands or smaller: $250+
• X-Large: $400+

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kateinks.square.site/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kate_inks_/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KateInx
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/kate-inks-gilbert
• Other: https://www.threads.com/@kate_inks_