MEET STEPHANIE

Born & raised in Langley, BC, Stephanie Risa is a professional tattooer, studio owner, and entrepreneur. With an entire life of art experience behind her, growing up in a family of artists and entrepreneurs of all kinds, landing a career in art was seemingly inevitable. Her passion for creating turned into a permanent medium in 2018 when she started her tattoo apprenticeship in Chilliwack, BC, just days after graduating highschool. In February of 2024, she opened her very own private studio in the heart of Chilliwack’s District 1881 - Studio Risa. Stephanie created this studio with the intent to provide a simple, clean, calm, safe, and welcoming space, where she could connect with her clients on a deeper level and truly focus on not only the tattoos she was providing, but the entire experience. 

With much of her inspiration coming from Los Angeles and the California desert, you’ll find that her studio is decorated with film images taken by Stephanie herself, from her personal trips to Los Angeles. In 2021, her ambition and talent in tattooing led her to working with internationally celebrated Los Angeles-based photographer, Estevan Oriol, who has been an inspiration to her since 2011. Having her career in tattooing lead her to this moment was nothing short of a dream come true. 

With Stephanie’s experience in painting, drawing, and photography, portraits have always been her main interest. Her specialties include Black and Grey realism, and portraiture. As her style continues to develop, her artwork continues to show a reflection of her personal interests.

Some of her current interests are western-inspired portrait tattoos, large scale floral tattoos,  as well as exploring the world of traditional tattoos. Creating a mix of these styles incorporated with Black and Grey realism is what she is currently striving for. 

With her hard work, ambition, and dedication to her craft, she is honoured to say she has gained a mutual respect between her and some of her favourite artists. She believes that being kind and creating great tattoos will always prevail over portraying a false persona. She intends to remain true to herself and her artwork and in doing so, hopes to attract clients alike. 

Stephanie continues to further her education and knowledge by constantly studying new techniques, equipment, and design. Her goal is to continue to learn from the best in the industry. Her main inspirations in tattooing are currently Tim Hendricks, Bobby Serna, Deanna James, and fellow British Columbia - Canadian artists Steve Wiebe and Luna Lucero.