Welcome to Kiss Ink Tattooz. I’m Shaneia Monteiro, a self-taught tattoo artist from New Bedford, Massachusetts.
My journey into tattooing started in an unexpected way. When I was younger, a friend who tattooed me reached a point where he physically couldn’t tattoo me himself. Jokingly, he told me, “Do it yourself!” So I did. I picked up the tattoo machine, tattooed myself, and something sparked inside me that never went away.
From that moment, I started tattooing myself and practicing whenever I could. Life took me down different paths and I went through some difficult times, but through all of it, I never stopped tattooing. Eventually, I made the decision to change my life for the better and committed myself completely to my craft.
For me, tattooing has never been about the money. It’s about the moment when a client looks at their finished tattoo and smiles—the emotions, stories, and connections with the people who trust me with their skin and memories.
I’ve been an artist for as long as I can remember, creating portraits as early as age 10. I specialize in linework, but I’m also highly versatile. I work with color, black and grey, 3D pieces, and many different styles.
I believe energy matters. I want every person who sits in my chair to feel comfortable, respected, heard, and excited about what we’re creating together.
My goal with Kiss Ink Tattooz is bigger than simply creating tattoos. I want to continue touching people through my artwork, spread good energy, and eventually bring my art and craft around the world—including through a mobile tattoo business.
— Shaneia Monteiro
Founder & Tattoo Artist, Kiss Ink Tattooz
