The Art and Edge of Shay Smith

Bozeman’s Tattoo Scene Spotlight: Shay Smith’s Artistry and Unmatched Technique

Shay Smith has forever known she was going to be an artist. Ask five-year-old Shay what she desired to be when she grew up, and she'd have told you straight up: an artist. Fast-forward, and she's exactly where she's meant to be—transforming skin into vibrant, living works of art.

For Shay, tattooing is more than ink and machines. It's a transformation. "I love being able to turn the body into art," she says, "and I love helping people feel that connection and power within their body." Her work isn't just embellishment—it's empowerment, alive in every design she lays down

Her path here was not a straight line. Before tattooing, Shay shaped cowboy hats and worked in food service. But art kept beckoning. Her dad's advice has been her compass: "Make sure you live every day, move, experience, just be, man." That reminder to stay present powers both her craft and her life.

If Shay could rewrite the rules, she'd invent a holiday all about bringing people together. Fitting, because that's what she does in the shop. She doesn't just tattoo—she builds family. "Honestly, just be ready for some serious silly stuff and prepare to become a part of a family," she says when asked what advice she'd give a new teammate. That sums her up: equal parts artistry, humor, and heart.

Shay's also not afraid to let her quirks shine. Her favorite word? Woof. Her dream superpower? Teleportation—because why wouldn't you want to jump to the ocean in an instant? And if she ever hit the lottery? Loans paid, bags packed, next stop: anywhere.

But right now, Shay is right where she belongs in Bozeman's Tattoo scene: in the shop, creating art that transforms how people perceive themselves, and validating her five-year-old self's insights.

Find Shay on Instagram: @art.shayyssmith

"... I received a tattoo by Shay, who completely slayed the design I walked in to get. Her entire attitude and energy was top tier and made me feel comfortable getting tattooed. This shop consist of the most professional and overall good people to be providing such services. Will gladly be returning to get some more work!" ~ Alyssa Gonzalez