Women Leaving Their Mark in the Tattoo Industry: The Wolf Den
Meet Ryane and Jess Rose
In 2017, Ryane founded The Den, and a few years later, their wife Jess joined in on the adventure. Together, they transformed the business into a thriving tattoo shop and art gallery. Their mission is to continually learn and grow, striving to be a leader in their community and beyond. The Roses’ dedication to sacred art fuels their intentional approach, making their small business a vibrant and evolving hub for creativity.
Based in Denver, Colorado, The Roses share their home with two Shiba Inus. They love traveling the world, riding their motorcycles, and creating art together whenever time permits. The gratitude they feel for having found each other is immeasurable, and their journey is a testament to the power of connection and shared passion.
Their journey in the tattoo industry has been marked by resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to inclusivity. From breaking into a historically male-dominated field to establishing a safe and welcoming space for artists and clients alike, their story is one of perseverance and transformation.
Finding Their Passion: Ryane's Path to Tattooing
Tattooing became a natural evolution of Ryane's artistic journey. After attending art school, they sought a medium that blended creativity with personal expression. While painting and graphic design fueled their passion, tattooing offered a deeper connection—transforming art into a lifelong piece on someone's body.
Entering the tattoo industry was no easy feat. They faced significant hurdles, especially as a woman navigating a male-dominated field. Early on they were suggested to pursue modeling as a way to gain exposure rather than being recognized for their artistic skills—an undermining and insulting notion.
The discrimination extended beyond mere suggestions; they encountered biases that questioned their ability to execute tattoos with the same skill as their male counterparts. Statements like "a delicate hand won’t color pack as well" were common, reinforcing the idea that they lacked the technical strength required. To prove their capabilities, they honed their craft relentlessly, building a reputation rooted in skill and determination.
Facing Gender Bias and Hazing in the Workplace
When Ryane began tattooing twelve years ago, representation in the industry was scarce. Kat Von D stood out as one of the few making waves in the field. Without many mentors to look up to, they had to carve their own path, developing their artistry and business independently.
During their apprenticeship, they endured a harsh environment designed to test their resilience. They were forced to wear a tutu while scrubbing their mentor’s car tires at 2:00 a.m., had Kool-Aid dumped on them at a convention, and were regularly subjected to slurs like “dyke.” Instead of receiving proper tattoo education, they were relegated to constant cleaning tasks.
These experiences, though grueling, fueled their determination to create a more inclusive environment for future tattoo artists. They refused to let discrimination dictate their career, pushing forward to claim space in the industry and paving the way for others.
Building an Inclusive Space
At The Wolf Den, inclusivity and respect are top priorities. Their team fosters a welcoming atmosphere for all clients, particularly marginalized communities, ensuring that clear boundaries are in place to protect both artists and customers.
The tattoo industry is evolving, becoming more inclusive with each passing year. More women and nonbinary artists are entering the field, breaking down barriers that once seemed insurmountable. While there is still work to be done, the shift is encouraging.
Advice for Aspiring Women Tattoo Artists & to Their Younger Self
One of the biggest pitfalls Ryane sees among young artists entering the industry is reliance on online courses or so-called “master” classes. Many arrive at shops with minimal experience and, worse, unsafe tattooing practices. Their advice? Focus on building a strong portfolio, avoid tattooing at home, and seek apprenticeships in reputable shops that emphasize proper technique and hygiene.
If they could go back, they would have zero tolerance for bullying and misogyny. They would also trust their marketing instincts more, investing in personal branding even if their shop at the time wasn’t supportive of it.
Their Proudest Moments
Their greatest joy comes from seeing clients thrilled with their tattoos, knowing that they chose The Wolf Den because of its reputation for warmth and inclusivity. Being recognized as a welcoming space—where clients feel safe and valued—means the world to them.
They respect their clients' bodies, understanding that every individual has a unique shape, history, and story. The goal is to create tattoos that honor those personal narratives.
The Future of Gender Representation in Tattooing
Ryane envisions a future where representation fosters kindness rather than competition. Instead of approaching one another with hostility, artists should celebrate their shared passions. Creating a supportive community benefits everyone, strengthening the industry as a whole.
Running a shop while continuing to grow as an artist is a constant balancing act—an ever-evolving process that requires continuous adaptation. They hope to leave behind a legacy of kindness, knowledge, and equal opportunity. Ryane's mission is to create a space where artists can thrive, ensuring they have the tools and support needed to succeed in an industry that has historically marginalized them.
Supporting & Building Solidarity Among Women-Owned Shops
As a mentor, they strive to give back to the community by providing equal opportunities for women and nonbinary artists. They want their shop to be a place where others can explore their creativity and gain financial independence, especially in a city with a high cost of living.
Their primary focus is ensuring that their team feels valued and seen as women & non-binary individuals. They find community in witnessing other female shop owners doing the same. In the future, they hope they can come together to share experiences and build a stronger network.
Featured Tattoos by The Wolf Den Artists
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