new "blooms"
Archive Entry: 1183
Volume: Evolution (Shifts in self-identity, rediscovery, and growth)
Medium: Skin
Key notes/components of inspiration:
The composition of this piece spans across three layers, blending visual and conceptual elements from first aesthetic cues to its deeper narrative core:
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Vegetables
Organic Flow -
Baby Artichoke
Hen of the Woods Mushrooms
Spring Ramps
Garlic Bulbs
Onions
Corn on the Cob
Broccollini
Lemons
Wild Strawberries
Fennel
Datterino Tomatoes on Vine
Fairytale Eggplant
Raspberries
Baby Candy Beets
Jumbo Asparagus
Thyme
Basil
Sage
Zucchini Flowers
Coriander with Roots
Romanesco with Leaves
Cavalo Nero
Ginger Flowers
Barley
Arugula
Baby Carrots with Tops
Brussels Sprouts
Leek -
Unconventionality
Authenticity
Redefining Beauty
Appreciation of the Underdog
Her storyin full earthly bloom
Who says beauty has to follow the traditional recipe?
When Kimberly came in, she knew she wanted a full botanical sleeve but with a truly unexpected twist. As a professional chef, her daily life revolves around the rich textures and flavors of ingredients, one of them being the underrated base — vegetables. When asked why she chose them over conventional flowers, her answer was simple: "Why not?"
To her, the swirling layers of Romanesco, the delicate crowns of artichokes and the intricate layers of mushrooms don't just rival traditional flowers — they often surpass them in pure, organic beauty.
Initially starting as just a three quarter sleeve, we added on more vegetables, fruits and herbs the following year till we got a full-sleeve tapestry of her favorites; the stalks, roots, and leaves arranged to contour and flow around her arm in a lush and organic tribute to her work.
By trusting her own taste and unapologetically celebrating her craft, she turned the underdogs into a one-of-a-kind heirloom—proving that true beauty is found wherever you choose to look for it.
“Bernice is experienced enough to guide you through all the usual tattoo questions and when you’re unsure about an idea, she’ll steer you in the right direction without making you feel like she’s taking over your tattoo.
Your ideas are heard, considered, and somehow come out better than you imagined.
What really stands out is how meticulous she is. She does not rush any part of the process, especially when it comes to the design and details.
My vegetable sleeve was done over two separate bookings, with each booking taking three days and you know someone takes serious pride in their work when they’re willing to spend FOUR HOURS on a single romanesco because they want to get the details just right.
And honestly? It shows.
Did I mention she’s also a great conversationalist? Come for the tattoos, stay for the conversations. ”
Your story is worth telling.
Whether born from your lifelong passion or unconventional beauty, this is where your story blooms.