Stillwater Prison Tattoo Program Transforms Lives and Careers

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A tattoo apprenticeship program at the Minnesota Correctional Facility–Stillwater is helping incarcerated men and recent parolees transform their artistic skills into licensed tattoo careers, including work at a local Stillwater tattoo parlor. The program allows participants to cover up old tattoos, honor their heritage, and prepare for life and work back in the community.

Why it matters

The Stillwater prison tattoo program provides a unique opportunity for incarcerated individuals to develop in-demand skills and secure employment upon release, addressing the challenges of recidivism and helping formerly incarcerated people successfully reintegrate into their communities.

The details

The tattoo apprenticeship program at the Minnesota Correctional Facility–Stillwater allows incarcerated men to train under the guidance of licensed tattoo artists, learning the technical and business aspects of the industry. Participants can use the program to cover up old tattoos, incorporate meaningful designs that honor their heritage, and gain hands-on experience that prepares them for careers as licensed tattoo artists once they are released.

• The tattoo apprenticeship program has been operating at the Minnesota Correctional Facility–Stillwater for several years.
• Participants in the program have the opportunity to work at a Stillwater tattoo parlor upon their release from the facility.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Stillwater Correctional Facility plans to continue expanding the tattoo apprenticeship program to provide more incarcerated individuals with the opportunity to develop in-demand skills and secure employment upon their release.