Tattoos are my way of wearing my stories on my skin. I feel it’s like wearing your inside feelings on your outside. Since getting tattooed in 1993, my skin has become a canvas to express my creativity and freedom. I decorate myself with vibrant, colorful designs—flowers, animals, and fantastical creatures that reflect my identity. To me, tattoos represent far more than just art; they are symbols of resilience, self-expression, and transformation.

As a tattoo artist since 1997, I’ve been privileged to help others tell their stories through their tattoos. I’ve traveled across the country with my dogs and horses, meeting people from all walks of life, and in some places, I’ve been met with admiration for my tattoos. In other areas, people aren’t as open-minded. I remember being in a Walmart when an older man shouted, “Who let YOU out of the circus?” I smiled and replied, “Oh, I’ve only worked at carnivals, but thanks for thinking I could land a fancy circus job!” That’s just me. No matter what, I’ve always responded to negativity with humor, kindness, and a little light.

But in 2022, I faced one of the most challenging moments of my life. While protecting my retired service dog from an attack, I was assaulted. I suffered broken ribs a traumatic brain injury (TBI), and I lost my left eye. That experience pushed me to my limits, and the recovery has been long and painful, both physically and emotionally. Yet, throughout it all, I’ve maintained my belief in resilience and positivity. Today, I wear a prosthetic eye; interestingly, many people think I’ve tattooed my eye, which is so wild! It’s a reminder that, like our tattoos, our scars tell stories. Despite everything, I’m still that same bright, funny person who chooses to be the sunshine in the world.

My healing journey has taught me that we can rise from anything, no matter what life throws our way. I created Painted Bear’s Tattoo Stuff to help people heal, inside and out.

~Mery Bear