Megan Wood Dublin / California / USA @rosenoirstudio
Megan Wood is a California-based tattoo artist and owner of Rose Noir Studio in Dublin, CA. With nearly 15 years of experience, she specializes in color realism, creating vibrant, lifelike tattoos that flow naturally with the body. Inspired by nature, travel, and storytelling, Megan sees tattooing as more than just art—it’s a way for clients to express their individuality and feel at home in their own skin. Her award-winning work and dedication to her craft have made her a trusted name in the tattoo industry.
What was it that motivated you to start tattooing?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved creating art. I was always that kid in school who said I’d be an artist when I grew up. But actually making that happen felt impossible at first—selling paintings or drawings doesn’t exactly pay the bills. While I was attending the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, a lot of my friends were getting their first tattoos. Since I was the “artist friend,” people often asked me to draw designs for them. I was always honored and excited to create something, and then a couple of weeks later, I’d see their tattoos looking exactly like my drawings. That really intrigued me. If I could design a tattoo, could I tattoo it? So, I started researching everything I could about tattooing—the history, the artists, the shops—and eventually found a tattoo school in Southern California. At the time, I didn’t know that was considered unconventional compared to an apprenticeship, but I didn’t care. I’ve always been a quick learner with a strong art background, so once I picked up the technical skills like machine handling and sterilization protocols, I just jumped right in. I tattooed as often as I could, built a portfolio, and now, 15 years later, I still love it as much as I did in the beginning. Actually, I love it even more!
What memories do you have of your first works as an artist?
Every birthday or holiday, I was thrilled to get new art sets as gifts. Everyone in my family knew art was my passion. I vividly remember sitting at my little table, working through a tutorial book called How to Draw Horses. It showed me step by step how to build shapes, shading, and contours. That was the first time I discovered how to create depth and dimension, and I loved it. I kept drawing horses over and over and even entered them into the county fair—where I won two prizes, including Best of Show. I think that’s when I realized art wasn’t just something I enjoyed—it was something I wanted to dedicate my life to.
Did you start tattooing or painting first?
Painting and drawing definitely came first, and I think that foundation made tattooing come more naturally to me. Tattooing is really just learning a new tool with slightly different techniques, but the fundamentals—proportions, contrast, color theory—were already there. Honestly, a lot of the time I feel like I’m painting on skin, just with needles instead of brushes.
Why did you choose Color Realism as your main style?
Color realism stood out to me because it’s both the most challenging and the most beautiful. When I look at the world, I don’t see bold outlines around everything—I see soft edges, light, and contour. I wanted my tattoo work to reflect life the way I see it: fluid, natural, and dimensional. Color realism flows with the body and feels more organic. It complements skin beautifully, and while it can be challenging, the results are worth it. My clients love the outcome, and so do I.
Your travels seem to be an important part of your life. What places have you managed to explore?
Travel is such a huge inspiration for me, and I hope to do a lot more of it. I’ve explored many different states in the U.S.—Alaska, Hawaii, New York—and of course all over California and surrounding states. Internationally, I’ve been to Mexico, Canada, and Ireland, and each trip has left me inspired in new ways. I love discovering different cultures, architecture, and ecosystems. Nature especially fuels my creativity. There’s something magical about translating those experiences into my tattoo work, giving them new life on skin.
Have you participated in conventions? What types of recognitions did you receive?
Yes! My first big convention was the Golden State Tattoo Expo in Pasadena back in 2019. I was both nervous and excited, but once I set up my booth, it turned into such a fun experience. I got to work on three really amazing tattoos that weekend, and I made some great connections with other pros in the tattooing world. Since then, I’ve entered contests at the SF Body Art Expo and have been fortunate to win several awards. In 2023, I won first and second place for Best Large Color Tattoo, and in 2024, I placed second and third in the same category. On top of that, my shop has been awarded Best Tattoo Shop in Dublin, California for seven years in a row, which I’m incredibly grateful for.
Do you have plans to do guest spots in studios outside your city this year?
I’ve never done guest spots, and I’m not sure I’d sign up for one. I really admire artists who do, but I love working in my own space. My studio is something I’ve built and refined over the years, and it has such a comfortable, private, and relaxing vibe. My clients love that familiarity too—it makes their tattoo experience even better.
Do you have plans for the upcoming months?
Definitely—more bright and realistic tattoos are always in the works. I’ve also been toying with the idea of creating a book. It wouldn’t just showcase my favorite tattoos, but also the clients behind them—their stories, what the tattoo means to them, and how it made them feel afterward. After 15 years, what really keeps me inspired isn’t just the art—it’s seeing how people come alive when they decorate their body in a way that’s meaningful. I’d love to create something that highlights that connection.
For those who want to closely follow your work, on which social media or platforms can they do so?
You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, @rosenoirstudio and also on my website: RoseNoirStudio.com.
Is there any message you would like to share?
Tattoos are so much more than ink—they’re living art, a way to carry your story and express who you are without ever having to say a word. I always encourage people to choose tattoos that are deeply personal, something that makes them feel empowered and authentic every time they look in the mirror. At the end of the day, a tattoo should reflect you, not anyone else’s expectations. I feel incredibly grateful that after 15 years, I get to do what I love every single day. Tattooing has given me not only a career, but also the opportunity to connect with people on such a meaningful level. My message is simple: don’t settle for average—whether in art, in life, or in how you choose to decorate your body. Surround yourself with the things that light you up and make you feel truly alive.
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