“Katie Davis left home (Maine) at 16 and moved to Richmond Virginia. She started working in a tattoo shop at age 17. A total dream job for a music and art loving minor delinquent. While apprenticing and working full time, she also attended/graduated VCU with a BFA in Fine Arts.
Fred and Katie opened Salvation Tattoo in 2004 on Pine St in Oregon Hill. Within a year, the two felt all the feels and tied the knot. Shortly thereafter, they moved the shop to where it stands now, 819 W Cary St.
Their intention has always been to show respect for the craft of tattooing, whilst giving that consideration to their clients.
“Keep our heads down, work hard and have fun! Witnessing what has been built creatively in Richmond over the years, by friends who are artists, musicians, other small business owners and community leaders has been truly amazing. I’m grateful to be a small part of it and raise our son here!”
This is a badass woman. We hit the ground running and chugged multiple darts and crushed some pizza and it just felt so natural. I think that’s because of our mutual friends within the tattoo community… it’s a wonderful tribal mentality.
Join us as we discuss catching rides to work on a motorcycle when you’re still in highschool, overcoming self doubt and having the courage to fight through for the bigger and better, ASMR and a pizza that’s potentially laced with vinaigrette and Mom’s blowing their gasket when they noticed our first tattoos.
Hope everyone is doing as good as they can in our current climate. This is a strong woman and hopefully me putting my foot in my mouth constantly and her sharing her journey can give y’all some sort of solace, amidst the absolute nonsense that’s currently rising to the top.” — host, Harrison Christy
RVA Magazine presents It’s Still Our City, a podcast hosted by Harrison Christy and with Clair Morgan as co-host and producer through NODDERLY. It’s an unfiltered dive into what gives Richmond, VA its edge, its charm, and its soul. If you’ve ever wondered what makes this city tick, this one’s for you.
Support RVA Magazine. Support Independent Media in Richmond.
At a time when media ownership is increasingly concentrated among corporations and the wealthy, RVA Magazine has remained one of Richmond’s few independent voices. Since 2005, the magazine has provided grassroots coverage of the city’s artists, musicians, and communities, documenting the culture that defines Richmond beyond the headlines.
But we can’t do this without you. A small donation, even as little as $2, one-time or recurring, helps us continue to produce honest, local coverage free from outside interference. Every dollar makes a difference. Your support keeps us going and keeps RVA’s creative spirit alive. Thank you for standing with independent media. DONATE HERE.
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