Witmer brings a varied and well rounded background in art and art media to her business. Earning degrees in art and art education from Indiana State University, Witmer said her love of art began with drawing and painting at the age of 7.

“I’m an organic artist,” said Witmer describing her style.

Having both taken and instructed art classes in Chautauqua County and Massachusetts, Witmer began her body art apprenticeship at Twisted Image Body Art Studios in Port Saint Lucie, Fla. Under the tutelage of Jeff Covell she spent a year honing the skills she is now bringing to Warren.

Witmer has now become the mentor. As Witmer’s apprentice, Mozes Matteson has begun his journey to becoming a body artist. In its early days Matteson’s time is spent perfecting his sketching and drawing and absorbing Witmer’s artistic knowledge and tattooing expertise.

Apprentice Mozes Matteson and Witmer showcase one of Skin Deep's two rooms available for tattooing and piercing.

While specializing in cover-ups Witmer is a flexible artist that is able to create body art using photos, clipped art and ideas brought in by clients and though it takes more time and planning custom art created by Witmer offers a unique option. Adding the ashes of loved ones or pets to body art is “fairly popular” Witmer said and is also available at Skin Deep. Body piercing of all types is also a service Skin Deep offers.

Although there are no formal regulations for safety or hygiene and the Tattoo Practice Act remains a bill in state Legislature, Witmer prides herself on keeping tattooing and piercing areas clean and sanitary, using sterile disposable equipment and ensuring client safety by not allowing food, children or animals in the rooms. Witmer is certified in CPR and Bloodborne Pathogens.

Skin Deep’s grand opening promises to be an exciting day with refreshments and snacks, special giveaways to the first 10 people through the door and $250 grand opening giveaway. Flash tattoos and piercings will be done by Witmer throughout the day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Located at 1209 Pennsylvania Ave. E., Skin Deep Tattoo will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week.

Take a chance on your next tattoo by throwing a dart at Skin Deep’s “All Things Nerdy” board that features custom drawn and clip flash tattoos and is pictured in this photo.