Today we’d like to introduce you to Leah Mcphail
Hi Leah, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey started when I was given my first set of art tools as a child. I’ve been drawing and painting ever since—not always well, but practice makes progress. I come from a family of fellow creatives; we have three generations of visual artists and musicians, so I’m no stranger to the world of fine arts. As I got older, I tried new mediums and aspired to be a full-time professional artist. Now, I’m living my dream in the tattoo industry, but the journey to get here wasn’t easy. I was ambitious, impatient, and willing to go anywhere that would take me, so I accepted the first apprenticeship I was offered. I learned a lot—how to apply my fine art technical skills to tattooing, and how to provide a clean work environment—but I wish I had done more research into who I would be working for because our values did not align. Still, lessons were learned. After leaving my apprenticeship, I joined Lone Star Tattoo in Dallas, TX, and have been tattooing for a little over two years. If it weren’t for my loved ones encouraging and supporting me, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I’m so grateful to the crew at Lone Star for providing a safe and supportive environment—not only for my fellow artists but for all of our clients as well. I learn something new every day, and I am excited for what the future holds.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Building on what I mentioned earlier, my apprenticeship was incredibly tough—physically, mentally, and emotionally—for unnecessary reasons. While apprenticeships are supposed to be challenging, the atmosphere I was in was toxic in ways that were detrimental to everyone there. I wish I had been more patient in finding an apprenticeship; unfortunately, my eagerness led me to situations that not only made me feel uncomfortable but also took a heavy toll on me both professionally and personally. Despite this, I’m very grateful to the artists who were patient enough to teach me. I’m glad I was able to leave that situation and find an accepting and supportive environment at Lone Star.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a tattoo artist specializing in fine-line florals and pet portraits. What I’m most proud of is the way I can give back to my community with the profits I make. Since joining Lone Star, my fellow artists and I have raised money for various animal rescues, put together care bags for the homeless population in Dallas, and taken part in nationwide fundraising events for women’s rights campaigns. I strive to create a safe space for people from every walk of life, especially those in the queer community. Many of my clients have shared stories of being made to feel lesser due to their gender identity, sexuality, body type, and more. I want them to know that when they come to me, they can let their guard down, enjoy their experience, and feel confident in trusting me to put my art on them forever. I believe that my attention to detail, the environment I provide, and the ways I give back set me apart from others.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I’ve already started to see a shift towards sustainable products in tattooing and more inclusive studios. I believe the industry will further evolve through advances in technology, like improved machines, inks, and aftercare products. I hope to see more mainstream acceptance of tattoos in both professional and cultural contexts, as well as artists becoming more open-minded and accepting of people from different backgrounds.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkedbyleah?igsh=NnY3cGRnYWFhcHI2
- Other: https://book.squareup.com/appointments/7z5uwp1jye5wyj/location/L1YHBWD753WSA/services
Image Credits
Headshot, Mags Logan
