Tattoo artist moves into Banks Mills Studios

Tattoo artist and University of Derby graduate Jodie Powell has moved into Banks Mill Studios, set up by the University in 1999 to support new businesses within the creative industries.

Before launching the Jodie Bambi Tattoo studio, Powell studied graphic design and visual communication at the University and went on to receive her Masters degree in Design in 2015.
During her final year, a chance meeting with a tattoo artist who was impressed by her final project inspired her to start a tattoo apprenticeship, where she learnt about equipment and health and safety.

She soon progressed within the industry to become a junior tattoo artist and spent the next three years training and developing her own designs in ornamental, floral and geometric styles.

Powell said: “I’d wanted to be a tattoo artist since college and got my first tattoo at an early age. However, I didn’t succeed in gaining an apprenticeship so decided to go to university to study graphic design in the hope of developing my digital skills and pursuing graphic art instead.

“I continued studying and took on a Masters degree which allowed me to focus on my own project based on any topic I wanted to explore. I based my final project on Mandala Designs and Intricate Pattern, which is prominent in my tattoo work today.”

Laura Williams, commercial manager at the University of Derby, added: “We can provide a range of support to tenants at Banks Mill, which could include one-to-one sessions with a business advisor or participation in events such as our Open Studios to bring a new audience to their businesses. Just as importantly, they can benefit from being part of a vibrant, creative community who actively share advice and ideas, as well as provide inspiration for each other’s work.”