Northwest Institute of Body Art – Licensed Tattoo School in Tigard, Oregon

Hands-on training for your tattoo career. Licensed 695-hour program combining art, safety, and business inside a working studio.

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Basic Tattoo Artist Program – 695 Hours.

Our 695-hour Basic Tattoo Artist Program combines 545 hours of theory with 150 hours of practical training. Each cohort has 1–3 students for true mentorship. Flexible scheduling allows you to finish in 4–18 months.

Foundations

• Tattoo History & Culture

• Anatomy & Skin Science

• Laws & Safety Regulations

What You’ll Learn

Technique & Artistry

• Machine Setup & Tuning

• Needles & Depth Control

• Color Theory & Design

• Placement & Flow

Professional Development

• Client Consults & Aftercare

• Business & Marketing

• Portfolio & Brand Building

Learn how to become a Tattoo Artist today!

  • A person drawing an intricate floral design on a sheet of paper with a blue pen, with shadows cast on the drawing.

    Our School

    Our School has over 25 years of combined years of experience. We pride ourselves on contributing only quality craftsmanship. Therefor we only take a select few to train at a time. All of our students that have finished our program have obtained successful careers in the tattoo industry.

  • A laboratory worker wearing a blue glove is applying white liquid from a squeeze bottle onto small, round, open containers on a metal tray.

    Instructors

    Licensed Instructors are:

    Joseph Newsom

    Joe opened the first Tattoo Studio in Tigard, Oregon -Skin City Tattoos in 2000. Since opening, he has carefully cultivated a team of artists that are dedicated to the joy of creating, educating and innovating within the industry. Joe offers a one-on-one educational experience tailored to translating your artistic ability into the art of tattooing.

    Kate Lindsay

    Kate is a classically trained artist who officially joined the team as a Black and Grey artist in 2018. In 2021 she joined the Northwest Institute of Body Art as an instructor. She works hard to get to know her students, creating a personal learning experience and mentorship that extends well after you are licensed.

  • A person drawing a detailed flower illustration on a tablet using a stylus, with a real pink rose held in their left hand.

    Enroll Today

    Download our full brochure to learn more about our program, and complete our enrollment application.

    Successful applicants have compiled a portfolio of work showing a variety of pieces done by hand, in addition to any digital creations they would like to share.

    Due to the nature of the craft we do not have enrollment deadlines. To see if we are currently accepting applications you can contact us by:

    Phone: 503-624-1719
    Email: skincity@hotmail.com

    Address: 11945 SW Pacific Hwy, Tigard, OR 97223

    Fully licensed by the Oregon health licensing agency

Northwest Institute of Body Art: Enroll in Our Program Today

Apply to the Northwest Institute of Body Art

Ready to begin your tattoo career? Fill out the form below to apply for our licensed 695-hour Basic Tattoo Artist Program. A member of our admissions team will contact you within 3–5 business days.