Molly McKing: Black Rose Tattooers

Flowers, particularly roses, have been a common tattoo design for almost as long as tattoos have been around. But, some tattoo artists are seeing an increased interest in not only floral designs, but plant and botanical-themed ones as well.

Molly McKing, a botanical tattoo artist in Tucson, Arizona, has always enjoyed creating plant tattoos for her clients.

“Botanical and flower designs have always made sense to me.”

As evidenced by the houseplants that decorate the tattoo parlor, there’s more to Molly’s interest in plants than just how pretty they look as a design. Plants have been a part of her life since she was growing up.

“Really I think most of the love of plants probably came from my mom and growing up in a place that’s much more nurturing to nice plants that aren’t trying to poke you.”

Molly says she’s seen an influx of clients who are interested in botanical tattoos, especially from the younger generations. 

“A lot of people get flowers tattooed on them, that’s a very common thing to do. I think a large part of the generation that’s of-age to get tattooed now is very into nature and plants.”

She credits the increased popularity to the rise of plant conversations on social media.

“There are definitely worse things to be influenced into doing besides collecting tattoos of plants.”

Follow Molly on Instagram.

Cinematographer, Director, and Editor: Peter Fuhrman

Produced by: Peter Fuhrman