Mariah Landers
In the heart of Ottawa, amidst the hustle and bustle, lies Obscura Tattoo, a sanctuary of creativity and self-expression. Meet Mariah Landers, the visionary behind Obscura. Her hands are adorned with the intricate designs she and her artists bring to life. She weaves her artistry, with each stroke telling a unique story.
"I remember meeting an older girl who had her belly button pierced, and I thought it was the coolest thing. It was a silver ring, and I thought to myself I needed to do whatever this was. A few months later I found my way downtown and walked into a tattoo shop and got my first piercing. I got exactly what I had seen and instantly fell in love with piercings and the vibe in general."
The Beginning
When Mariah turned 20 she got her first real studio job and was tattooing full-time at 21. Learning how to tattoo on Cherry Creek, her style was a bit of American traditional, old English, and lots of tribal.
"Today I Tattoo mainly dot work, ornamental, floral, and botanical motifs. But I’ve done everything from traditional to neo traditional to color realism in between now, and my first days of the industry I just love tattooing and art, my style will probably change a little bit more in the many years. I hope I have left tattooing."
"Every experience, good or bad, has shaped me into the artist I am today. It's a continuous journey of learning, unlearning, and self-discovery."
Traditional Roots, Modern Flair
Mariah's studio reflects her commitment to traditional tattooing principles, where every design is meticulously crafted to perfection. Here, she seamlessly blends classic techniques with contemporary flair, creating timeless pieces that resonate with her clients' souls.
"The principles of traditional tattooing guide me even in my abstract designs. It's about balance, saturation, and longevity. Every piece must adhere to these standards to stand the test of time."
Trauma-Informed Care
In her commitment to creating a safe and comfortable environment, Mariah practices trauma-informed body modification and tattooing. With empathy and understanding, she ensures that every client feels respected, heard, and supported throughout their tattooing journey. Among Mariah's most profound experiences are those shared with clients seeking scar camouflage and restorative tattooing. In these moments, she witnesses the transformative power of art, offering solace and healing to those on their journey to reclaiming their bodies and narratives.
"Being trauma-informed means acknowledging that every client has unique needs and experiences. It's about creating a space of trust and respect, where everyone feels safe and valued."
"Restorative tattooing is both humbling and deeply gratifying. It's an honour to be entrusted with marking these significant milestones in my clients' lives, offering them a sense of closure, empowerment, and beauty."
Collaborating & Crafting Personalized Artwork
Collaborating with clients, Mariah transforms their ideas and preferences into bespoke works of art. Through attentive listening and thoughtful interpretation, she infuses each design with personal meaning and significance.
In her exploration of floral and dot work abstract tattoos, Mariah continues to push the boundaries of her craft. With boundless creativity and a thirst for innovation, she uncovers new dimensions of beauty and expression within these artistic realms.
The Essence of Creativity
For Mariah, creativity is a way of life—an ever-present force that infuses every moment with beauty and possibility. Whether tattooing, designing or simply living, she finds joy in embracing the creative potential of the world around her.
"Creativity is about infusing everyday moments with a touch of magic. It's about seeing the beauty in the ordinary and finding inspiration in unexpected places."
Words of Wisdom
As a seasoned business owner, Mariah offers sage advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: go slow, prioritize integrity, and surround yourself with like-minded individuals. In the journey of building a business, she reminds us that authenticity and passion are the keys to enduring success.
"My advice to new business owners is simple: stay true to yourself, cultivate meaningful connections, and never compromise your values. Success isn't just about profits—it's about making a positive impact and leaving a lasting legacy."
A Visionary's Legacy
As Mariah's journey unfolds, her legacy as an artist, business owner, and advocate for creativity continues to inspire and uplift those who cross her path. With unwavering dedication and boundless imagination, she leaves an indelible mark on the world—one tattoo at a time.
