Tattoo of skeleton in a hat and sunglasses riding a train, holding a cross done by Erika Lawrence.
Fine Line Tattoo of orchid flowers with "Mom" and heart symbol on skin Done by Erika Lawrence

Comfortable Tattoo Experience, a Short Drive from Chicago

Located in the Reef Tattoo shop, just 4 minutes south of I-80 off Harlem Avenue, we offer a serene and inviting environment, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. The shop fosters a sense of community among artists, where we continually inspire and challenge each other to reach new artistic heights. We maintain a welcoming and inclusive space where all individuals feel comfortable and respected.

My Artistic Passion

I'm drawn to projects that evoke positive emotions and memories. Creating nostalgic pieces brings me immense joy, as I know they will resonate with others and become cherished reminders of happy times. I also find great satisfaction in working on realistic and ornamental designs, as they allow me to continually hone my craft and push my artistic boundaries.

Tattoo Styles I Offer

My current repertoire includes a range of styles:

  • Neotraditional: A contemporary take on classic American tattooing, characterized by bold lines, vibrant colors, and illustrative imagery.

  • Realism: Capturing the world with stunning accuracy and detail, creating tattoos that look like photographs or paintings.

  • Black and Gray: Utilizing shades of black and gray to achieve a timeless and sophisticated look, suitable for a wide range of designs.

  • Floral: Delicate and graceful or bold and dramatic, floral tattoos can be customized to suit any style and preference.

  • Fineline: Intricate and elegant, FineLine tattoos are perfect for small and detailed designs.

  • Animals: From majestic wildlife to beloved pets, animal tattoos can be realistic, stylized, or symbolic.

  • Cartoon/Anime: Bringing your favorite characters to life with vibrant colors and dynamic poses.

  • Coverups and Reworks: Transforming unwanted tattoos into beautiful works of art.

  • Custom Designs: Open to collaborating on any unique and creative ideas you may have.

Free Consultation for Custom Ink

I believe that open communication and collaboration are essential for creating a truly personalized tattoo experience. During your free consultation, we will discuss your ideas, explore placement options, provide cost estimates, and address any questions or concerns you may have about the tattooing process and aftercare. Your comfort and peace of mind are my top priorities, and I will work closely with you to ensure that your tattoo journey is a positive and memorable one.


Micro Realism Tattoo of a mallard duck on a person's arm Done by Erika Lawrence.
Blurred photo of Erika Lawrence's Station in the Reef Tattoo
outside of building the Reef Tattoo is Located in.
Neo Traditional Tattoo of St. Michael with wings and a sword battling a serpent on an arm done by Erika Lawrence.
Realism Medusa Portrait tattoo with snake hair back of thigh done by Erika Lawrence.
Close-up of a person's back with multiple text tattoos featuring inspirational quotes in black ink. Done by Erika Lawrence