Best of Austin®

Most Badass Septuagenarian Tattoo Artist

"Shanghai" Kate Hellenbrand

click to enlarge Most Badass Septuagenarian Tattoo Artist
Photo by David Brendan Hall

Remember all those times your parents told you not to get a tattoo because of that age-old fear: "How will it look when you're 70?" Well, "Shanghai" Kate Hellenbrand, America's "Tattoo Godmother" is living (and inked) proof they're wrong. Now in her 70s, Shanghai Kate has built a reputation of trailblazing and talent, tattooing celebrities like Howard Stern and everyday Austinites alike. Go on, get the tattoo.