Meet Alyx Smith | Tattoo Artist and Shop Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alyx Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alyx, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process was to first and foremost honor my late beloved Grandmother Kathryn Davis Hoane. She passed at the top of the year 2023 and that was very hard on me. Shortly after, I made a decision that I would turn my pain into power which led me to open my shop and name it after to her.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My journey to becoming an artist started when I about 7 years old. I used to draw at my mom’s kitchen table for hours. If was so fun to me, yet challenging, but satisfying. I mixed natural ability with practice and it became a skill I could always come back to at any point in my life and I did just that. In High School I had almost stopped drawing completely. It wasn’t until I got to college I realized there was a serious need for my gifts around campus. Different organizations would reach out to me for artwork and from there it became a much needed source of income while I was in school. Going to college really brought back my love for art and the realization that I am an artist. I have not stopped using my gifts since.

I would like the world to know that my shop and the work that comes from it is built off of integrity and good spirits. Tattoos shops often times have a negative connotation associated with them. When I opened this shop, my goal was to immediately separate us from the rest simply by the principles we stand by. Morals, good faith and positivity. This shop is a reflection of God’s grace and favor in my life and I believe it feels that way when you walk in.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
To be honest, I have not had much of a chance to explore the great city of Plano. I’m always so busy working. But I do love this one taco spot called La Salsa Verde. I would take my best friend to La Verde for sure!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My late Grandmother Kathryn Davis Hoane. She was an anomaly. A mover and shaker for her own business in the 80s-90s. Making things happen like having her own store front boutique, to directing fashion shows, to tv appearances and becoming an Author. My Grandmother did all these things while being a mother of two. Not only was she business savvy, she was a minister and speaker of truth. Simultaneously intertwining her faith into her business endeavors. She was a mentor and inspiration to many. A great wife, mother, sister and Grand as I like to call her. She was Remarkable.

Instagram: @rmrkbleink

Image Credits
Zach Turner and
Benni Benz