Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Gilley-Déry.
Hi Jennifer, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been an artist for as long as I can remember. I started experimenting with body art when I was about 14, doing traditional henna, and eventually found my way into tattooing. I started my formal tattoo apprenticeship about 20 years ago, and since then I’ve had the opportunity to work in different shops, learn from some incredible artists, and really develop my own voice.
I’ve never been very good at staying in one artistic lane. Over the years my work expanded beyond tattooing into painting, illustration, body painting, special effects makeup and prosthetics. I love learning a new medium and figuring out how skills from one discipline can influence another. That crossover has become a big part of who I am as an artist.
Eventually I opened Sundog Art Studios in Lynchburg. My original vision was bigger than simply opening a tattoo shop. I wanted to create an art-centered space where tattooing could exist alongside other forms of art and where local artists could have opportunities to show their work. Like most small businesses, Sundog has evolved quite a bit since then, and so have I.
Today, tattooing is the heart of my day-to-day work, particularly custom pieces that allow me to really collaborate with my clients. I still paint, create prosthetics and special effects makeup, do body art, and stay involved with events like Dragon Con, where I’ve been fortunate enough to compete, teach and participate in panels.
Looking back, my career hasn’t followed a perfectly straight path, but I think that’s what I value most about it. Every medium I’ve worked in, every artist I’ve learned from, and every unexpected turn has added something to the artist I am now. Twenty years into this career, I’m still learning, experimenting and figuring out what I want to make next.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think one of my biggest struggles has been finding my greater purpose within the tattoo industry. After doing this for 20 years, there comes a point where simply being busy or successful isn’t enough. I started asking myself what I actually wanted to contribute and what I wanted the next part of my career to look like.
That has meant being willing to let Sundog evolve too. When I first opened the studio, I had a much bigger concept with multiple artists and a more traditional shop structure. Over time, I realized that growth doesn’t always mean getting bigger. Sometimes it means getting more intentional.
Changing gears has been challenging because you become attached to the vision you originally had, especially after putting so much work into building it. But I’ve learned that changing direction isn’t the same thing as giving up on that vision. For me, it’s been about stripping away what wasn’t working and making room for the things that feel meaningful again: creating art, connecting with my clients, and continuing to challenge myself creatively.
I’m still figuring out exactly what that greater purpose looks like, and I’m actually okay with that. The evolution itself has become part of it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m primarily known as a tattoo artist, but I’ve always considered myself an artist first. Tattooing has been my career for about 20 years, but my work also includes painting, murals, illustration, body painting, special effects makeup and prosthetics. I think moving between those different mediums has had a huge influence on the way I approach tattooing.
I don’t really consider myself a one-style tattoo artist. I enjoy illustrative work and I’m heavily influenced by traditional tattooing and Japanese art, but what I love most is designing something specifically for the person in front of me. I like taking a client’s idea, sometimes just a collection of things that are meaningful to them, and figuring out how to turn it into one cohesive piece of art that works on the body.
What I’m most proud of is the trust my clients give me. A lot of them have been coming to me for years, and I’ve been able to watch their lives change while adding to their collection along the way. Tattooing is an unusual art form because the artwork leaves the studio with someone else. That relationship and collaboration are a huge part of why I still love doing it after all these years.
I think what sets me apart is probably my versatility and curiosity. I’m always willing to learn something new, whether that means painting a mural, building a prosthetic, experimenting with body paint or tackling a tattoo that pushes me creatively. I don’t ever want to reach a point where I feel like I’ve figured it all out. I think staying curious is what keeps me evolving as an artist.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I try not to rely too heavily on any one source for inspiration. I love all different genres of literature, studying artists across different disciplines, and learning new techniques. Most of the podcasts I listen to are actually about self-improvement and mental health. I also find a lot of inspiration in nature, travel, music and everyday life. I think one of the best resources for any artist is simply staying curious.
Pricing:
- Tattoo pricing varies based on size, placement, detail and complexity.
- Custom work is quoted individually.
- Consultations are available for larger or more involved projects.
- Contact Sundog Studios for current pricing and availability.
Contact Info:
- Website: Sundogartstudios@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/sundogartstudios
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/sundogartstudios
