tattoo of the week: nature girl lauren richeson

Lauren is a 26 year old nature girl, originally from Lynchurg, Virginia who spent many summers on her grandparent’s farm in Bent Creek. This is where her love for animals was cultivated. Growing up she always had dogs, cats, chickens and even a pig or two around! Later on in life, Lauren ended up turning her passion for the earth and its creatures into a career by studying Biology and Environmental Science in college. Now residing in Brooklyn, Lauren has collected 7 tattoos that focus on the theme of peace and a connection to the natural world. “I can look at them when I’m feeling outside of myself and they ground me.” For Lauren, her tattoos aren’t just body art. They are symbols to live by.
To submit your tattoos for Tattoo Of The Week, send pictures + answers to the questionnaire below to mika@afropunk.com.

Name: Lauren Paige RIcheson
Age: 26
Location: Brooklyn!
How many tattoos do you have? 7
Which one is your favorite? Why? MY Lily Portrait because shes the most amazing pitbull ever, and my best friend!
Why should we feature you and your ink? I think I’ve got some very interesting and intricate pieces that defiantly speak to my personality. From the Open Book to my Peace and Recycle sign…to the Death Moth or Black Beauty. All of my work is nature and animal based. They are symbols that remind me of what I want in my life. They only help to enhance the temple that is Lauren!
Do you have a particular tattoo artist you go to? Gerlad Felicano at Leathernecks in Park Slope! We went to college in Virginia together and I’ve know him since he was doodling on napkins! Great work and knows how to tattoo on people of color!
Do you regret any tattoos you have? None yet!