amyzager

About amy

Hey, I’m Amy Zager: a full-time tattoo artist, color-obsessed illustrator, and unapologetic creative weirdo based in Denver, Colorado. I specialize in full-color illustrative realism, watercolor techniques, and surreal, emotionally-driven designs that tell your story in vivid detail. Think galaxy sleeves, pet portraits with stars and soul in their eyes, nostalgic pop-culture mashups, and nature-meets-sci-fi dreamscapes, all made custom with heart and intention. My studio is a fiercely inclusive space, built for hims, femmes, thems, and anyone who’s ever been told they’re “too much.” I believe your skin deserves art that feels like you. If you’re looking for a collaborator who listens deeply, designs intentionally, and isn’t afraid to make something wildly beautiful, I’m your artist for empathy, precision, and a whole lot of caffeine. Let’s make something unforgettable.

Styles

• Cosmic Colorism
• Glitter
• Pop Art
• Watercolor
• Fantasy
• Abstract
• Illustrative
• Sketch
• Surrealism

Specializations

• Melanated Skin
• Cover Ups
• Burns
• Vitiligo
• Scars
• Animal
• Portrait

Locations

• Primary: Denver, Colorado
• Secondary: Chicago, Illinois

Policies

Deposit Policy

Booking fees are not refundable for any reason other than my own need to reschedule indefinitely due to illness or losing a crucial limb in a battle to the death with a grizzly bear. The booking fee is deducted from the total of your tattoo, at the last session for multi-session projects. Studio policy is to offer a reschedule with your booking fee as a one-time courtesy with at least 72 hours notice. A reschedule including a new booking fee may be required due to significant last-minute changes to the subject matter, placement, or style, or arriving to the appointment with sunburn or other skin reaction, spray tan, taking accutane or antibiotics, or using any topical numbing creams on the area to be tattooed.

Rescheduling Policy

Studio policy is to offer a reschedule with your booking fee as a one-time courtesy with at least 72 hours notice. A reschedule including a new booking fee may be required due to significant last-minute changes to the subject matter, placement, or style, or arriving to the appointment with sunburn or other skin reaction, spray tan, taking accutane or antibiotics, or using any topical numbing creams on the area to be tattooed.

Touch-Up Policy

Please let me know within 8 weeks of our last tattoo session if you need a free touch up. Touch ups cover any issues encountered during the healing process, such as light patches or an inconsistent blend. I want your art to look its absolute best! Free touch ups don't address sun or water damage during healing, clear signs of abrasion or scab picking, undisclosed medication use like antibiotics, or aging over the years.

FAQ

SO HOW DOES THIS WORK?

Every tattoo I take on is custom for each of my clients. I've created a handy consultation form on my website to get us started with your design. Take your time filling it out, this will be what I refer back to when I'm working on your design as our appointment day comes up. I need to get a good idea of your style, ensure that I'm the best artist for your design, and come up with a composition. It's great to gather a variety of references from photographs and artwork to fully flesh out your design. Help me visualize your idea with as many specifics as you can. If, say, you want a tiger in profile with a yellow rose, try to find a photo that speaks to you. I love working with photographs from life.

How do I book?

My consultation form and waitlist are always open on my website. I select projects based on the concept and style to make sure I'm just the right artist for each tattoo. I work with an assistant to make sure I can reply to every single inquiry, and if we can't get you booked right away, I do keep everything on file and will reach out if I can work your project into my books! Last minute openings do pop up - follow my Instagram stories for the fastest info. I also prioritize concepts from my wanna-dos. See if there's anything that sparks your inspiration, or let's use it as launch point for something new! I typically book 3-4 months out, longer if needed for clients to plan travel to me. Information is covered in more detail via the consult form.

Do you travel?

I love to travel, and will post to social media when I have availability at any of my usual haunts! As of 2023 I'm glad to offer a Private Travel Client package, which lets me book a dedicated trip to a studio closer to you, or at a vacation destination, just for your project. Private travel bookings come with some great perks, including priority scheduling ahead of the next booking block, sometimes up to a year in advance. This means you can lock in your appointment without the usual "Books Open" rush and have my full focus on your piece in a trusted setting.

How do I find good references?

If your design involves several elements, note the most important ones to prioritize, and please know that LESS IS MORE. I can't put 10lbs of design in a 2lb bag. If you want a tiger with some flowers send me photos showing the type of tiger you like - Bengal or Siberian? Full face or profile, serene or snarling? What flowers - a few large blooms, or many clusters, and what specific colors? If you want a comic character, show me the specific costume (or you're getting Wolverine's yellow spandex on your Thor). Clear, high resolution references help me out a lot! Use Google advanced image search, or try a stock photography website and grab your favorites! I also appreciate seeing other tattoos or artwork you're into so I can get your specific vibe within the range of styles I handle.

How do I prepare for my tattoo appointment?

Some tips for the day: Have a large healthy meal just before our appointment, something that'll digest well and keep you full for hours. Go for that "happy belly naptime" feel. There’s no food allowed in the procedure area, but bring water or juice, and a carbohydrate-y snack for when we take breaks. We have wifi, and you're welcome to have a book, phone, or headphones while we work. Remember your state ID, a clean protective mask if you’re unvaccinated or at higher risk for airborne pathogens, and comfortable, clean clothes. I provide disposable pasties and undergarments if needed. Sunglasses may be helpful if you’re light sensitive, my work lights are intense. See you soon!

Links

• Instagram: painterlyfiend
• Website