Meet Ria Kim | Tattoo artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ria Kim and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ria, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business as a pet portrait tattooist was a natural progression for me, driven by a deep passion for both tattoo art and animals. My love for pets has always been a significant part of my life, and combining that with my artistic skills felt like the perfect way to create something meaningful. I wanted to offer a unique service that not only celebrates the bond between people and their pets but also allows me to connect with clients on a personal level. Each tattoo is more than just art; it’s a tribute to the special place pets hold in our lives.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art focuses on detailed pet portraits that go beyond just technical accuracy. At first, I was solely focused on getting the details right, thinking that was the only way to meet my clients’ expectations. Over time, I realized that while technical skill is important, it’s just the starting point. The real growth came when I began to truly listen to the stories my clients shared about their pets.
In the beginning, I was so worried about capturing every detail perfectly that I didn’t even think to ask about their pets’ names or connect with them personally. This anxiety often made me tense during sessions. But as I started to shift my focus from technical perfection to connecting with my clients and their stories, I found a new sense of calm. Now, even though I still get nervous, I approach each session with a more balanced mindset.
What I hope people see in my work is a genuine effort to honor the special bond between people and their pets. My aim is to combine technical skill with heartfelt storytelling, and I’m grateful for the chance to grow and make these meaningful connections through my art.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting LA for a week, I’d start with Venice Beach and Santa Monica Pier to kick things off with some energy. We’d then take in some culture at the Getty Center and Griffith Observatory. For dining, I’d recommend Grand Central Market and Bestia. We’d explore the neighborhoods of Silver Lake and Echo Park, and I’d also suggest a relaxing walk on the Fern Dell Trail, where I take my dog weekly. We’d wrap up with a sunset drive along Mulholland Drive.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give my thanks to my amazing clients who have trusted me with tattooing portraits of their beloved pets. The stories they share and the way they love their fur babies are a constant source of inspiration for me. Their trust and the personal connections we build through their pets’ portraits truly drive and motivate me in my work.

Website: https://www.vismstudio.com/artist/kimria

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tattooist_kimria/

Image Credits
Ria Kim