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With a lifelong interest in flora and fauna, Portland-based artist Emily Kaul specializes in “watercolor art inspired by our wonderful natural world.” Originally, this interest culminated in a collection of works on paper. Eventually, however, Kaul turned her attention to body art, transforming her own nature-inspired designs into expressive and empowering tattoos.

Kaul’s decision to dabble in nature-themed body art was predominantly shaped by her relocation to Hawaii. While living on the Big Island, she got her first tattoo, an experience that revealed to her “the immense power that this art form could embody.” Interested in introducing others to this empowering experience,  she decided to become a tattooist upon her return to the Pacific Northwest, where she would “create a space where people could fully embrace their true selves with tattoos as the means of expression.”

Evoking a sense of balance and exhibiting Kaul’s distinctive approach to design, each tattoo features a black sketch of a plant or animal set against a backdrop of blended tones. Evidently inspired by watercolor, these exquisite blocks of pigment add pops of color to the delicate line drawings without overpowering them. Kaul hopes that her harmonious designs “heal, inspire, and empower” her clients with both their aesthetic beauty and their expressive qualities.

If you’re inspired by Kaul’s practice but not interested in committing to a permanent piece of body art, be sure to stop by her Etsy shop for prints, stickers, and even temporary tattoos.

Specializing in nature art, artist Emily Kaul creates empowering tattoos inspired by flora and fauna.