Meet Ari Starks

I’m Ari Starks, a tattoo artist and multimedia creative specializing in black and grey ornamental work I call Energy Symbols — tattoos designed with intention, structure, and presence.

My work is rooted in connection. Clients often tell me the most impactful part of a session isn’t just the tattoo itself, but the experience of being seen and held in a focused, grounded space. That’s intentional. I approach each session with care, attention, and respect for the vulnerability that comes with marking the body.

I began tattooing at 17 and have spent the last six years refining a practice that blends precision, intuition, and design. My work is not trend-driven or reference-based. Each piece is created specifically for the individual, shaped by conversation, placement, and the body’s natural flow.

At 22, mentoring became an extension of my practice. Teaching, to me, isn’t just about technique — it’s about developing clarity, confidence, and personal voice. That same philosophy carries through my tattoo work.

SoftHome was created as a space to slow down, soften, and reconnect. My sessions are intentional and selective, centered on meaningful conversation, thoughtful design, and work that holds significance beyond the surface.

Born in Maryland, raised in Fort Worth, and currently based in Dallas, I travel regularly for select projects. I’m here to create work that feels considered, lasting, and deeply personal.