Mikayla Riley : A Journey Blending Art and Science in Tattooing

When I was developing the concept for "Local is Local," I wanted to emphasize that being local isn't just about where you come from; it's about the dedication and effort you invest in your craft. It's essential to communicate that just because someone is based in a different state doesn't mean they aren't a local artist. This is the story of Mikayla Riley, a talented local artist in Denver who exemplifies this spirit through her work.

Mikayla Riley  has crafted a vibrant and multifaceted life that artfully intertwines creative expression and scientific inquiry. Since joining the Nest Art Collective in 2021, she has dedicated herself to contributing her artistic skills and passion to the community. This role follows a transformative apprenticeship that began at (Fuck) Junkyard Ink in April 2019, where she first stepped into the world of tattoo .artistry

Art has always been a fundamental part of her identity. With supportive parents who nurtured this passion by providing art supplies and enrolling her in weekly classes, she explored a diverse array of mediums and styles. A beloved art teacher in elementary school further ignited this passion, leading to a deep concern for the diminishing funding for arts programs in public schools.

During high school, a burgeoning interest in science, particularly in animal care, inspired her to pursue a career as a veterinarian. Despite this academic focus, she continued to develop her artistic skills through various classes. As a Biology Major in college, however, a shift occurred, leading her away from formal art education and leaning more toward casual doodling.

In a poignant turn of events, the loss of her first pet rabbit in 2018 catalyzed a significant life change. This heart-wrenching experience prompted her to get a tattoo in memory of the beloved companion, marking the beginning of an obsession with tattooing. Fortunate to work with a compassionate artist during this pivotal moment, she found the process welcoming and inspiring, igniting a fierce passion for tattoos that would guide the future of her career.

By 2019, the burden of a demanding job combined with academic pressures took a toll on her mental health. Seeking transformative change, she bravely pursued an apprenticeship at a local tattoo shop, presenting a portfolio filled with creativity and talent. To her delight, the shop owner recognized her potential and offered her a chance to learn the intricacies of tattoo artistry.

Though she ultimately stepped away from pursuing a Master’s Degree in Conservation Biology, Mikayla embraced the opportunity to blend her love for art with her understanding of biology and ecology—two passions that reflect her fascination with plants and animals.

Her journey at (Fuck) Junkyard Ink exposed the troubling aspects of the tattoo industry, particularly the aggressive old-school shop culture that often marginalizes women. As one of the few women in the shop, she constantly encountered not only inappropriate comments but also a pervasive sense of entitlement from her male counterparts. Their dismissive attitudes and unwillingness to accept her as an equal artist reflected a broader issue of misogyny within the industry. 

She witnessed firsthand how many men perpetuated a toxic atmosphere, undermining her skills and belittling her contributions. Despite facing a barrage of condescension and harassment, she showed remarkable resilience. Rather than allowing their bullying to deter her, she used it as fuel to prove her worth, skill, and passion for tattooing, standing firm against a culture that too often favors aggression over respect and equality.

Drawing deeply from personal experiences, Mikayla continues to merge artistic talent with scientific knowledge, carving out a distinctive path in the tattooing realm. Today, she stands as a testament to resilience and creativity, embracing the lessons learned along the way while remaining grateful for the experiences that have shaped her into the artist she is today. As she evolves, Mikayla remains dedicated to innovating within her field, championing both artistic expression and a richer understanding of the natural world.