In the enchanting heart of the Lake District, Big Lakes Tattoo Studio is more than just a place where ink meets skin; it’s a testament to determination, artistry, and the power of passion. Alice Metcalfe and her partner Nitu are the creative minds behind this thriving studio. Their journey from humble beginnings to winning a prestigious England Business Award is a tale of art, resilience, and unwavering dedication.
Established in December 2019 on Main Road in Windermere, Big Lakes Tattoo Studio has become a haven for tattoo enthusiasts and art lovers. The path to success was not without its challenges, as the studio’s inception coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns. However, Alice and Nitu’s unwavering spirit saw them through these tumultuous times.
Nitu’s artistic journey began in his home country of Romania, where he embarked on tattooing. His passion for ink led him to England, where he could nurture his tattoo skills and transform them into a full-fledged career. It’s a journey that spans a decade, marked by persistence and creativity.
On the other hand, Alice started her journey in a completely different industry. She initially joined Big Lakes Tattoo Studio as a manager and receptionist. However, life had other plans for her. In June 2022, she welcomed a baby boy into the world, a life-changing moment that inspired her to seek new horizons. Upon returning from maternity leave, Alice decided to take on the role of an apprentice tattoo artist.
Her journey into the world of tattooing began just ten months ago. She describes her decision to step into this unique world as a conscious choice by a young couple with a young child. She said, “We decided it would be great to work together and start a new venture, and it’s the best decision we ever made.”
At Big Lakes Tattoo Studio, diversity is the cornerstone of their artistic expression. They offer a wide range of styles and a personalized service, ensuring that each client’s vision is brought to life on their skin. Among their prominent designs are black and grey realism and geometric work, but Alice highlights that nature is a trendy subject. The studio thrives on the challenge of creating intricate animal portraits, human portraits, and various pieces that push the boundaries of their artistic skills.
The weekend, they brought exciting news for Big Lakes Tattoo Studio as they were honored with the title of the best tattoo shop in Cumbria. Their remarkable achievement has earned them a coveted spot in the national awards ceremony in Birmingham, where they will compete against other tattoo studios that have won regional awards across the UK.
Alice expresses their gratitude and excitement about the award, saying, “We were thrilled to be nominated, never mind winning. We’re over the moon to have won this award. It means everything to us, as we have put our hearts and souls into this business. To receive this award based on our clients’ votes is just amazing. We’re very much looking forward to going to Birmingham; it will be lovely to meet with the other studio owners.”
The story of Big Lakes Tattoo Studio is a testament to the indomitable spirit of passionate artists, the power of artistic reinvention, and the profound impact of perseverance. Alice, Nitu, and their team have established a thriving studio and become integral to the Lake District’s vibrant tattooing community. As they move forward to compete on a national stage, their journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and a testament to the boundless possibilities that await in the world of ink and creativity.