Cheryl Rae Shohet, tattoo and permanent makeup artist at Healing Ink & Art in Waconia, Minnesota.

Drawing has been a lifelong obsession, guiding my artistic journey across many mediums. With a B.F.A. in Illustration and an M.F.A. in Metalsmithing and Sculpture, I have spent decades as a professional artist creating fine art, jewelry and sculpture, exhibiting in galleries and juried art shows throughout the United States and Europe.

Throughout my career, I have always believed that art can have a deeper purpose. That belief eventually led me to tattooing and, most importantly, to restorative tattooing for breast cancer survivors. I specialize in hyper-realistic 3D nipple and areola restoration following mastectomy and breast reconstruction, combining my understanding of anatomy, color, dimension, light and shadow to create results that look remarkably natural.

My work has since expanded to include custom tattooing and permanent makeup. Whether I am creating a meaningful tattoo, restoring an areola after breast surgery, or designing natural-looking permanent makeup, I approach each person the same way I approach a piece of art: individually, thoughtfully and with close attention to the details that make each person unique.

Permanent makeup can also serve a restorative purpose. For clients experiencing hair loss or changes resulting from alopecia, chemotherapy or other medical circumstances, carefully designed brows and other paramedical applications can help restore features while maintaining a soft, natural appearance.

My background as a professional artist remains at the foundation of everything I do. Over the years I have received grants, fellowships, scholarships and awards, partnered with galleries, participated in fine art shows, worked as a Minneapolis muralist, judged the Uptown Art Fair and taught art to gifted youth. Decades spent studying anatomy, the human form, color and composition continue to influence my work every day.

Healing Ink & Art grew from the idea that art can be both beautiful and meaningful. Our private studio provides a peaceful, welcoming environment for tattoo, permanent makeup and restorative work, while our storefront gallery showcases fine art, jewelry, pottery and handcrafted work from nearly 30 local artists.

For the past eight years, I have provided 3D areola restoration pro bono to breast cancer survivors. Today, I also accept insurance for qualifying restorative treatments, while community donations and our Sponsor a Survivor program help support those whose care is not fully covered. When needed, I continue to provide this work pro bono. Financial circumstances alone should never prevent a survivor from receiving this restoration.