The ink on Lisa Zee


Lisa Zee from Ohio

Where did you grow up?
Cleveland, Ohio.

How was it growing up there, would you say that it influenced you?
Cleveland, Ohio where I grew up was a nice little suburb. Nothing crazy, good people, nice neighborhoods! It really only influenced me to want to see and experience bigger, better things in the future! I love traveling more than anything!

When did you start getting tattoos?
I was 18 when I got my first tattoo on my ribs!

How would you describe your style?
My style isn't really a style at all! I just wear what I’m comfortable in. I don’t ever get fancy unless I have to. 99% of my clothing is black, hoodies and sweaters are my favorite!

Do you consider tattoos as a serious art form?
I really do. So much time and creativity is put into tattoos and I respect tattoo artists so much!

How do you see the tattoo culture right now?
I think it’s becoming popularized and over saturated  It’s good because acceptance is growing stronger, but it is also making scratch artists and poor quality, cheap tattoos more common as well.

What has been your inspiration for getting them?
I always was fascinated by tattoos when I was younger and knew I wanted to have them.

What’s your favorite piece?
My favorite piece so far is the dragonfly on my stomach done by my good friend Shaun Kidd.

Do you catch people starring at you because of your ink?
All the time! But usually they are friendly stares, not nasty looks!

In your opinion, do your tattoos change your mood often?
My tattoos don’t really change my mood at all, they’re just a part of me and who I am!

What’s your most significant tattoo and why?
It’s really hard to say which of my tattoos is most significant. They all have a lot of significance, whether for family or lifestyle or friends. My stomach piece is pretty bold though, it represents my straight edge lifestyle amongst other symbolic meanings with the dragonfly and all Seeing Eye.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to get their first tattoo?
The one thing I would say is to thoroughly research for a reputable artist! Don’t just get one because its “cheap”!

Will you be getting anymore?
I plan to have my back, and both legs completed in the next six months!

What’s your biggest inspiration, what keeps you going?
My parents and my dogs. My parents are really hard working people and my dogs are my babies. I have to keep going to support them!

What is one thing that life has taught you?
Life has taught me not to plan too far ahead. Unexpected things occur and can leave you heartbroken. Cherish the things and people you love while you can and appreciate your time with them.

Do you have a favorite quote?
“I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.”

Anything else you would like to add?
Thanks to everyone who’s supported me, this year has been amazing thanks to you!

Photographers Credit: