Daring to dream

Ojas Cats took it upon himself to change the way people feel about tattooing

Ojas Cats is an artist on many levels. —

David Gluns photo

Ojas Cats takes a deeply personal and spiritual approach to tattoo artistry. Having worked in the body art industry for more than 15 years, he has owned Cats Tats Skin Art Studio in Nelson for nearly 14, earning a strong reputation in the community for being both professional and talented. He has a variety of skills under his belt, with a background in everything from mechanics to graphic arts.

"I took a graphic arts course after high school and then a motorcycle mechanics course at BCIT," said Cats, "which led me to do artwork on the bikes in the off season, which led me to learning how to tattoo on my own . . . which I would not recommend to anyone."

In pursuit of knowledge

Despite the fact that he was self-taught, Cats initiated himself into the world of tattoo artistry with a high standard of safety and care. Learning the tricks of the trade was a challenge at that time, but he did not let that stop him from establishing himself as a reputable professional.

"At the time I wanted to learn, it was a bit harder to find someone to teach you or to even find the information as to where to buy machines or supplies," he said. "The health regulations were just then being written, so I took it upon myself to learn as much as I could about skin and health safety in body art."

Approaching with integrity

Along with his talent and ethics, another thing that sets Cats apart is the philosophy behind his work. He describes tattooing as a healing art, one that evokes a sense of belonging akin to tribal rites of passage—a concept that is often lacking in Western culture.

He aims to help clients get past the stereotypes and the intimidation they may expect when getting a tattoo, incorporating sound therapy and aromatherapy into the sessions to add a therapeutic element to the experience. Cats strives to change the way people feel about this form of self-expression, and many happy customers can vouch for his success in that.

A part of this town forever

Considering his creative gifts and positive spirit, it's no wonder that the local community holds Cats in high regard.

"One of my proudest moments was having my picture taken for the Nelson picture book by Anne DeGrace and Steve Thornton. It made me feel like I am now a part of this town forever," he said. "People need to know that I am the same person who has been doing the tattoos for all these years. It is just that my gender has changed in the past year or so, but all the accolades I accumulated until now have been for a woman, not a man, which is how I am now."

You can learn more about Cats' work and his inspiring perspective online. The Cats Tats studio has a user-friendly website with helpful FAQs about choosing an artist, deciding on a tattoo design, safety and other important information. There is also a detailed aftercare section, and a portfolio of some of his stunning designs.