Heather Buckhout

Connect What inspired your most recent tattoo?

I had come across the artist Nick Fierro a while ago. I absolutely loved his work, weaving sacred geometry, dot work, intricate patterns and designs, with elements of realism and exquisite black work. I wanted to cover some scars on the backs of my upper thighs. Once I connected with Nick and shared my vision, I waited almost 2 years for a 2 day back to back session and I could not be happier with how it came out. I would love to work with Nick again on some larger body pieces.

If your ink could speak, what would it say?

We speak volumes about the woman who wears us proudly. The body is merely a vessel and we are the enduring story of a life lived wholly and fully in pursuit of beauty and freedom.

What would you do with the $25,000?

First: more ink! I’d love to collaborate with Bang Bang and his insanely talented team to keep building my body into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Second: I’d invest in opening a cannabis dispensary in New York. My birthday just passed—4/20—and I made a promise to go all in on my dreams. This competition is already part of that dream coming true.