Your Future in Tattooing Starts Here
Breaking into tattooing is tough without formal training. RI Tattoo Academy provides comprehensive programs that prepare you for a successful tattoo career.
Is the traditional path holding you back?
The traditional path to becoming a tattoo artist is filled with uncertainty and obstacles. Without proper guidance, you could waste years chasing a license.
Finding a Mentor
Securing an apprenticeship under a licensed artist can be challenging.
Confusing Rules
Navigating state regulations without guidance often leads to delays.
Unpaid Work
Years of unpaid labor as an apprentice with no guarantee of licensure.
We Eliminated the Uncertainty
Imagine launching your tattoo career with confidence, knowing you have a clear path to licensure and a supportive team behind you. You’ll gain hands-on experience, master your craft, and start earning sooner, all within a professional and encouraging environment.
Peace of Mind
We guide you every step of the way, ensuring you meet all state regulations seamlessly.
Fast-Track
You’ll become a licensed tattoo artist in just 18 months with a complete professional kit.
Become a Pro
Stand out with advanced skills and expertise that set you apart from the average tattoo artist.
Why Choose RI Tattoo Academy?
Start Your Tattoo Career
New England’s only state-approved tattoo school. Graduate with guaranteed licensure and job placement.
18 Months to Your New Life
Join our growing list of students working in top studios. Hands-on training builds confidence and careers.
Learn From Industry Masters
Working tattoo artists teach real-world skills. Master safety, artistry, and professional standards.
Don't Miss Our NEXT Open House
Facilities: See where you’ll hone your craft.
Meet the Team: Get to know our crew.
Q&A Session: Get your questions answered.
What You'll Master
Tattoo Techniques
Develop expertise in line work, shading, greyscale and color, across traditional, realistic, and more styles.
Artistic Skills
Improve your drawing capabilities, understand color theory, and cultivate your unique artistic tattoo style.
Health & Safety
Master essential hygiene and sterilization practices to comply with RIDOH state health regulations.
Business & Marketing
Acquire knowledge in customer service, ethics, marketing, and running a successful tattoo business.
Where Creativity Flourishes
At RI Tattoo Academy, we provide a professional and inclusive environment where creativity flourishes. Led by expert instructors with years of industry experience, our program emphasizes hands-on training and comprehensive coursework. We equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in the tattoo industry. Your success is our mission.
Your Pathway to a Successful Tattoo Career
Meet Our Expert Teaching Staff
Offering multifaceted education covering tattoo techniques, artistic foundations, industry compliance, business management, marketing strategies, and professional development paths
Autumn Bishop
Owner/Health & Safety InstructorAutumn has an extensive background in healthcare and public safety. She holds advanced degrees in sociology, biology, healthcare administration, and patient safety, and has served as a Quality of Care Consultant and Program Manager for the Rhode Island Department of Health. Autumn is also a licensed tattoo artist with advanced certifications in saline removal, scar revision, and camouflage techniques.Chrystal Santos
Primary Tattoo InstructorChrystal brings over a decade of hands-on experience in tattooing and body art. She began her journey with a background in fine arts and a two-year apprenticeship that laid the foundation for her tattoo career. Licensed since 2016 and a shop owner since 2023, Chrystal also holds certifications in skin safety, piercing, and advanced cosmetic tattooing techniques including ombre brows and lip blushing.Christopher Paniccia
Primary Art InstructorChristopher is a highly accomplished educator and artist with over 25 years of teaching experience at both the K-12 and university levels. He holds multiple advanced degrees in fine arts, education, and special education. With a background in printmaking and curriculum design, he brings a deep passion for both artistic expression and academic excellence to the RI Tattoo Academy.
iNTERESTED IN JOINING OUR TEAM?
Think you’ve got what it takes to teach the next generation of tattoo artists? We’re always looking for passionate, experienced pros to join the team. We’re on the lookout for:
- Business & Branding Experts
- Marketing & Social Media Experts
- Licensed Tattoo Mentors
- Permanent Makeup Instructors
Don't let barriers stop your dream
At RI Tattoo Academy, we know you are the kind of person who wants to become a successful, licensed tattoo artist. In order to achieve that goal, you need a clear, guided path that equips you with professional skills and licensure. The problem is the traditional route is filled with obstacles like finding a mentor, navigating confusing state regulations, and enduring unpaid work, which makes you feel frustrated and uncertain about your future. We believe it’s just plain wrong that passionate artists should struggle to pursue their dreams. We understand how overwhelming this journey can be. That’s why we offer a comprehensive 18-month program that provides expert instruction, hands-on training, and mentorship assistance.
Benefits of formal tattoo artist training
Guaranteed Licensure
Our program fully meets Rhode Island Department of Health requirements, ensuring you achieve licensure upon graduation.Expert Instructors
Our team includes a skilled tattoo artist, professional art teacher, and a state health official who managed the tattoo licensing program.Comprehensive Curriculum
Our 18-month program covers everything from anatomy and aseptic techniques to business skills and artistic development.
Small Class Sizes
With no more than 8 students per class, you'll receive individualized attention and direct mentorship from experienced instructors.All-Inclusive Supplies
Tuition provides all essential tools—tattoo machine, needles, inks, stenciling supplies, and more, to support your training.Mentorship Assistance
We help you secure a licensed mentor, ensuring you fulfill the apprenticeship requirements for becoming a professional tattoo artist.
Get In Touch
Have questions?
If you have any questions, need further information, or just want to say hello, please fill out the form below. Our team is eager to hear from you and will get back to you as soon as possible. Whether you are interested in our services, have feedback, or require assistance, we’re here to help!