Discover Your Path in Traditional Tattoo Artistry
Are you passionate about art but unsure if tattooing is your calling? At RI Tattoo Academy, we help you explore the world of traditional tattoo artistry in a supportive and inspiring environment. Our comprehensive program is designed for individuals just like you—those who are curious, creative, and considering a future in tattooing.
- No Experience Necessary: Begin your journey regardless of your background.
- Expert Guidance: Learn from seasoned tattoo artists dedicated to your growth.
- Community Support: Join a network of like-minded creatives.
Take the first step towards uncovering your potential. Let’s find out together if this is the right path for you.
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Program Overview: What to Expect
The Traditional Tattoo Artist Program at RITA is designed to transform aspiring artists into skilled professionals. Combining artistic technique with rigorous hands-on training, this 18-month program offers everything you need to build a successful career in tattoo artistry.
Graduate with essential certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP). We also guide you through meeting Rhode Island licensure requirements, ensuring you’re fully prepared to enter the industry.
Phase 1
Six months of evening classes, twice a week, focusing on foundational skills.
Phase 2
12-month supervised apprenticeship under the mentorship of seasoned artists.
What You’ll Master in Our Program
Develop the skills, techniques, and confidence needed for a career in tattoo artistry. Each module is crafted to guide you through essential tattooing practices, helping you create art that resonates with clients.
1. Tattoo Basics
This module introduces the fundamentals of tattoo artistry, including the essential skills, ethics, and responsibilities of a tattoo artist. Students will explore the tattoo industry, professional expectations, and the path to building a successful career.
2. Style Origins
Dive into the rich history of tattooing and learn the origins of traditional styles. This module covers the cultural significance and evolution of tattoo styles, laying the foundation for mastering classic techniques.
3. Design Skills
Develop your artistic skills with essential drawing techniques and tattoo-specific design principles. Students will learn to create compelling tattoo compositions, focusing on line quality, shading, and visual balance.
4. Safe Practices
Gain a thorough understanding of tattoo equipment, including setup, sterilization, and maintenance practices. This module emphasizes safe, aseptic techniques to ensure client safety and professional standards.
5. Real Practice
Under supervised conditions, students begin hands-on tattooing, applying what they’ve learned on practice skins and eventually on models. This module is designed to build confidence, skill precision, and real-world experience.
6. Business Essentials
Explore the business side of tattoo artistry, including managing client relations, pricing, and marketing your work. Students will learn valuable strategies for running a successful practice, from handling bookings to building a loyal client base.
Career-Driven Benefits for Aspiring Artists
Embarking on a career in tattoo artistry requires more than technical skill—it calls for business insight, artistic confidence, and industry connections. Our program is designed to develop well-rounded professionals, offering not only hands-on training but also the mentorship, ethical grounding, and networking opportunities that set you up for a successful career.
Skill Development
Our program emphasizes hands-on training and detailed instruction to ensure you develop a solid foundation in tattoo artistry. You’ll gain mastery over traditional tattoo styles, including line work, shading, and color packing, equipping you to create high-quality, professional tattoos. Alongside artistic skills, we teach safe and effective equipment handling, focusing on aseptic techniques and client safety protocols to prepare you for a compliant and responsible practice.
Professional Growth
We go beyond technique to help you succeed in every aspect of your career. Learn essential business ethics, including transparency with clients, pricing strategies, and managing expectations. You’ll also receive guidance on building a professional portfolio that highlights your strengths and style, setting you up to attract clients or potential employers. Presentation skills are incorporated to prepare you to showcase your work confidently in any setting.
Networking Opportunities
Become part of a vibrant community of tattoo professionals. Our program connects you directly with experienced artists, mentors, and other industry professionals, giving you access to valuable insights and career advice. Throughout the year, you’ll have the opportunity to attend exclusive events, workshops, and guest lectures, expanding your knowledge and building relationships that can open doors in the industry.
Take the First Step
After you submit your application, you’ll be contacted by an enrollment advisor who will walk you through the remaining steps. From scheduling your interview to helping you prepare for your first class, we’re here to make the process smooth and exciting.
Start your journey today and see if the art of tattooing is your future!
Ready to get started?
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Admissions Requirements
Minimum Age
Application
All applicants must fill out and submit the RITA Initial Application.
Open House
Participation in an open house event is mandatory to learn more about the program.
Interview
Committment
Acknowledgement of the 18-month program duration and attendance requirements.
Tuition
Understanding and planning for the program’s tuition and fees, with options to discuss financing.
Why Our Program Stands Out:
FAQ
What is the duration of the Traditional Tattoo Artist Program?
The program lasts 18 months, starting with six months of evening classes followed by a 12-month supervised apprenticeship.
Do I need prior experience or a portfolio to apply?
While prior experience is not required, submitting a portfolio of your artwork helps demonstrate your artistic potential.
What certifications will I earn through the program?
You’ll earn certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP), all required for licensure.
How often are classes held, and when do they take place?
Classes are held twice a week in the evenings, making it convenient for those with daytime commitments.
Will I have opportunities to tattoo real clients during the program?
Yes, during the apprenticeship phase, you’ll gain hands-on experience tattooing real clients under expert supervision.
Is financial aid or payment plans available?
Yes, we offer various financing options and payment plans to make the program accessible. Our admissions team can guide you through the options.
What is included in the cost of the program?
The program fee covers tuition, professional tattoo equipment, supplies, reference materials, and all required certifications.
How many students are in each class?
We keep our class sizes small, with a maximum of 8 students, to ensure personalized instruction and mentorship.
What career opportunities are available after graduation?
Graduates have access to job placement assistance and may be invited to work at RITA or with our partner studios, depending on performance.
Can I visit the academy before enrolling?
Absolutely! We encourage prospective students to attend an open house to learn more about the program and meet our staff.