Business Details
25 Years
experience
Custom Tattoos & Art Gallery in Vancouver
Since 2001, Liquid Amber Tattoo has been a trailblazer in Vancouver's tattoo industry, founded by Justina Kervel and Luvia Petersen with a vision to elevate women's presence in tattoo art. As a queer-women-owned studio, we prioritize inclusivity and artistic expression, offering custom tattoos, cosmetic tattoos, and a curated art gallery showcasing local talent. Our 8 resident artists, including internationally renowned names like Adrian Cier and Amelia Vogan, bring decades of combined experience in diverse styles from traditional to avant-garde. Health board-certified since inception, we maintain rigorous cleanliness standards while mentoring emerging artists through our apprenticeship program that has trained 13 professionals to date.Our relocation to Commercial Drive in 2022 expanded our creative space, hosting ART SOCIAL events that transform our studio into a community art hub. With specialized services like Amelia's dual expertise in cosmetic and art-based tattoos, and upcoming piercing services by Ryan Tantrum starting 2025, we continue evolving while maintaining our founding commitment to artistic excellence and client safety.
Services
Custom Tattoos
Cosmetic Tattoos
Art Gallery Exhibits
Piercing Services
Artist Mentorship
ART SOCIAL Events
Tattoo Consultations
Aftercare Products
Gift Certificates
Guest Artist Features
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- We offer 24 years of experience with 8 resident tattoo artists
- Our studio maintains health board-certified cleanliness standards
- We provide dual expertise in cosmetic and traditional tattooing
- Our ART SOCIAL events support local visual artists
- We offer apprenticeship-trained artists with diverse specialties
Associations and certifications
- Health Board-approved
Services
Custom Tattoos
Our resident artists create unique tattoo designs tailored to individual preferences. With expertise in styles ranging from traditional to contemporary, each piece receives meticulous attention to detail. Clients benefit from comprehensive consultations ensuring artistic vision aligns with anatomical considerations.
Cosmetic Tattoos
Amelia Vogan specializes in cosmetic tattooing including eyebrows, eyeliner, and freckles. Combining medical precision with artistic sensibility, these treatments offer long-lasting enhancement of natural features. Services include complimentary consultations for personalized treatment planning.
Art Gallery Exhibits
The studio features rotating exhibitions showcasing Vancouver's visual artists. This platform supports local creatives through curated gallery spaces and special event programming. Exhibits are integrated with our regular tattoo services in a welcoming environment.
Piercing Services
Starting 2025, Ryan Tantrum will offer professional piercing using freehand techniques. Services include ear, facial, and body piercings with implant-grade jewelry options. Consultations ensure proper placement and aftercare guidance for optimal healing.
Artist Mentorship
Our formal apprenticeship program trains emerging artists in technical skills and professional practices. With 13 graduates since 2001, we emphasize both artistic development and industry standards. Mentees work under experienced artists' supervision.
People
Justina Kervel
Co-Founder & Lead Artist
Co-founder with 24 years of tattoo experience, specializing in diverse styles and mentoring 13 apprentices since 2001. Recognized for innovative design approaches and community leadership in Vancouver's art scene.
Amelia Vogan
Cosmetic & Art Tattooist
Certified cosmetic tattoo artist since 2015, expanding to traditional tattoos in 2020. Combines precision techniques with creative artistry, offering unique dual expertise in both service categories.
Ryan Tantrum
Piercing Specialist
Accredited piercer with 12 years of experience, joining in 2025. Member of The Association of Professional Piercers, specializing in freehand techniques and high-quality jewelry installations.
Questions
What tattoo styles do your artists specialize in?
Our 8 resident artists work in diverse styles including traditional, contemporary, geometric, and custom designs. Specialties range from detailed portraits to abstract compositions.
Do you offer aftercare products and instructions?
Yes, we provide comprehensive aftercare guidance and sell recommended products. All clients receive specific healing instructions tailored to their tattoo's size and location.
Are consultations required before getting a tattoo?
While not mandatory, consultations are strongly recommended for complex designs. They allow artists to understand your vision and provide accurate pricing estimates.
What are your age requirements for tattoos?
Clients must be 18+ with government ID. Minors require parental consent and accompaniment for specific piercings and ear tattoos following strict documentation guidelines.
How do you ensure studio cleanliness and safety?
We maintain health board-certified standards with strict sterilization protocols. All equipment is single-use or properly sanitized between clients following industry best practices.
