Richmond Tattoo Artist Ash Reid to Speak at Garden Ink Event

Richmond  Tattoo artist Ash Reid, a standout member of the Loose Screw Tattoo team, has been invited to speak at Garden Ink, a special event hosted by Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. The event, celebrating botanical tattoos, will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 5 to 9 p.m. Ash, alongside fellow local artists Dana Carlson and Amy Black, will share insights into the craft and artistry behind botanical tattoos.

“We are thrilled to be hosting an event that brings together the natural beauty of the Garden with the artistic talents of local tattoo artists,” Mary Heather Parch, Chief Marketing Officer, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. “Whether someone is a tattoo enthusiast or curious about botanical designs, the event will be fun, engaging, and a celebration of the creative talents of these artists.”

As a featured artist at this year’s Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention (October 17–19, 2025), Ash will be showcasing her intricate, nature-inspired designs alongside other world-class tattoo artists. This is another step in her growing recognition as one of Richmond’s most exciting tattoo talents.

A Journey of Passion and Purpose

Ash Reid’s tattoo career started with a deeply personal connection to the art.

“Ever since I got my first tattoo, I knew I wanted to be covered in them,” she recalls. “Tattoos are such a powerful form of outward expression, and I felt that would be an important part of my life.”

Her early experiences working at Loose Screw Tattoo, first at the front desk and later in marketing and graphic design, sparked a deeper passion for the craft. 

“When I saw artists pushing the boundaries of tattooing, I knew I wanted to join them,” she says. “That’s when I decided to pursue tattooing seriously.”

A Unique Tattoo Style

Known for her botanical and animal-inspired tattoos, Ash’s work is a mix of vintage charm and modern precision. 

“I’ve always loved stories like Lord of the Rings, Beatrix Potter, and Redwall,” she shares. “It just felt natural to translate that love into tattoo art.”

Her unique style combines intricate linework, dotwork shading, and nature-inspired imagery to create tattoos that feel timeless yet fresh. 

“I try to capture the antiquity of storybook illustrations while using modern tattoo techniques to give the artwork depth,” she explains. 

Her whimsical designs – from flowers to adorable animals in clothing – have drawn a loyal following of clients who love both the fantasy and the craftsmanship of her work.

A Rewarding Career in Tattooing

For Ash, the most rewarding part of being a tattoo artist is the connection with her clients. 

“When I see a client fall in love with their tattoo and, in a way, fall more in love with themselves because of it – that’s a feeling I’ll never take for granted,” she says.

Having worked at Loose Screw Tattoo for seven years, she credits the shop for providing the opportunity and support she needed to grow in her career. 

“Loose Screw is a place of opportunity,” she explains. “It’s an environment that rewards hard work, and I’ve been lucky to have mentors who helped me get to where I am today.”

Featured Artist at the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention

As a featured artist at the 2025 Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention, Ash is eager to showcase her work to a wider audience. 

“The Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention is my favorite event of the year,” she says. “It’s such an amazing experience for both artists and tattoo enthusiasts. There’s everything from live mural painting to tattoo competitions, and so much to enjoy even if you’re not getting tattooed.”

This year’s convention will be held from October 17–19, 2025, at the DoubleTree by Hilton – Midlothian, located at 1021 Koger Center Blvd, Richmond, VA. Whether you’re a seasoned tattoo fan or simply curious about the art form, there will be plenty to experience.

Looking Ahead

Looking to the future, Ash is excited about what’s next for her career. In addition to her appearance at Garden Ink and the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention, she’s thrilled to attend the Hell City Tattoo Convention in Columbus, Ohio, this May. 

“Hell City has been a goal for me since the start of my career,” she says. “I’m excited to finally be part of it this year.”

GardenInk Event Details:

Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025
Time: 5 – 9 PM
Location: Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden | 1800 Lakeside Avenue, Richmond, VA 23228
Register Here: Garden Ink Registration
Note: This is a ticketed event for ages 18+. No tattooing will take place during this event.

About Loose Screw Tattoo

Loose Screw Tattoo is one of Richmond’s premier tattoo studios, known for its talented artists, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to quality. The studio’s diverse range of styles and specialties makes it a standout destination for tattoo enthusiasts in the region.