Shelly James was born and raised in Bellingham, Washington. A tattoo artist since 2011, she is greatly influenced by the PNW region. Inspired by its natural beauty, this can be seen in her work, which can be described as organic and illustrative. She is well rounded in different looks, depending on what her client would like to have executed. From bold to soft, she loves a challenge. In February 2017 she became certified to tattoo 3D areola restoration nipples on cancer survivors. She believes that this has become an important calling, and it has become the inspiration for opening a private studio setting.