BIDDEFORD, Maine — It seems like new tattoo shops are popping up all over Maine and with more shops, comes more diversity.
One shop in Biddeford is breaking down gender barriers within the industry. Hurst & Company, located on Main Street, is an entirely women-owned tattoo shop, which opened last month.
Tori Gilliam, a tattoo artist with 14 years of experience, recalled the challenges she faced when she first entered the field as a young woman.
"When I first started, I was told I would not be licensed because I was female and that a tattoo shop is no place for a female," Gilliam said.
However, she noted that perceptions have shifted over time.
"I was 19 when I started, and that was unheard of. People looked at me a little strange and were like, 'You're too young to do this,' but I don't feel like that's the case anymore," Gilliam said.
Abigail Stevens-Roberts, a new artist, highlighted the increasing opportunities for younger artists in the industry.
"I started getting tattooed when I was 18, so that was 6 years ago, and I only knew of 1 place. Now I know a million places," Stevens-Roberts said.
Customers also expressed their support for the artists, emphasizing that gender shouldn't matter when it comes to tattooing.
Andrew Fitzgerald, a local, said, "I liked her art, and I never thought of her as a woman tattoo artist. I just liked what she did, and I've been here ever since."
"Tattoos are always going to be in style and be popular. They have been around for so long, and they aren't going to go anywhere anytime soon," Stevens-Roberts added.
These artists are not only leaving their mark on their customers' bodies but also changing the industry, woman by woman.
Through their talent, passion, and determination, they are breaking stereotypes and carving out a space where everyone is welcome to express themselves through art.