Meet Ellie Maney | Tattoo Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ellie Maney and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ellie, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Art has been a part of my life ever since I could hold a pencil. I’ve always loved drawing—whether it was on scrap paper, napkins, or my school notebooks. Growing up, I spent time going to tattoo shops with my mom and flipping through tattoo magazines, which sparked my interest in the industry. When I was 11, my grandmother arranged for me to take painting lessons with a friend of hers, which is something I will always be grateful for. As a teenager, I spent most of my free time creating art, constantly honing my skills and experimenting with different styles. Over time, my passion for art naturally led me to tattooing, which felt like the perfect way to turn something I loved into a career.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m really proud of my color work and stylized animals. When I was in my apprenticeship, I took on commissioned pet portrait paintings to make extra money. I also supported myself with these commissions during the pandemic when everything shut down. Over the last couple of years, I’ve had the opportunity to take on more pet portrait tattoos, and it’s been such a fun and rewarding experience. I’m honored that people trust me to capture the likeness of their pets, especially when it’s a memorial. It’s a really meaningful thing to be a part of, and I love adding personal touches—like a pet’s favorite toys or treats—to make the design feel even more special.

I also really enjoy doing tattoos of animals in a more whimsical, storybook kind of style. One of my favorites was a mouse in a rainstorm, looking through a book with a cape and tiny glasses on. I’m all about mixing in magical, natural, and even creepy elements too—like crystals, bones, bugs, and things like that. I just really love bringing those weird, cool vibes into my work.

I’ve been tattooing for almost six and a half years now. Getting here wasn’t easy, but I wouldn’t change a thing. It’s been a grind, and I’ve had to stay persistent. I actually went through two apprenticeships. The first one, I made the tough decision to leave after about a year because I wasn’t learning what I needed to, and the environment wasn’t right. That was one of the best decisions I could’ve made. A few months later, Robert Beeman took me on as his apprentice, and I’m forever grateful to him. He taught me a ton and helped me get to where I am today.

I’m still learning every day. Tattooing’s one of those crafts where there’s always something new to pick up, and I really enjoy that. Each tattoo, design, and client gives me the chance to improve and try new things.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you’re into comedy and burlesque, Dad’s Garage Theatre is always so much fun. I’ve been to a few shows now and all of them have been incredible. 529 in East Atlanta Village is another great place to go. It’s a small dive bar with live shows, and I love it because you’re right there with the musicians, up close and personal. I’ve seen one of my favorite bands, Origami Button, play there and had the opportunity to speak with them.

If you’re looking to get out of the city, head to downtown Woodstock. It’s a cool spot to just hang out and it’s super close to Portal Tattoo Gallery! Truck & Tap is great for grabbing drinks and they have a different food truck every day, and Reformation Brewery has awesome beer. It’s the perfect place to kick back, play trivia, or maybe get in a cornhole game with some friends.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to a few key people who’ve played a significant role in my journey. First, I’m incredibly grateful to my grandma for recognizing my talent early on and believing in me. She arranged painting lessons, which taught me the basics that I needed to know and encouraged me to continually hone my skills. I also owe a huge thank you to my mom, who not only supported my artistic pursuits but also allowed me to do my first tattoo on her. My mentor, Robert Beeman of Ink and Dagger, has been an invaluable influence on my growth as a tattoo artist. He’s shared his knowledge, challenged me to improve, and provided guidance I will always be thankful for. I’m also deeply appreciative of the opportunity Cory Cartwright and Vinny Fiorenzo gave me at Portal Tattoo Gallery, where I’m proud to call home. In the almost three years I’ve been with them, I’ve learned so much and met some of my closest friends, who have become an integral part of my journey.

Website: https://www.portaltattoogallery.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellietattoos/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095542772068