Hi, I’m Sophie.

I’ve been working as a tattoo artist for over one year and an illustrator for over ten years. My work celebrates diversity and aims to make people feel safe and valued. Queerness is a big part of who I am, and it shines through in my bold, colorful tattoos.

Tattooing isn't just a job for me; it's a passion. I've always been fascinated by its artistry and history, and it holds a special place in my heart. I work at an all-femme shop, and I love being part of such a gender-inclusive space. In our studio, you're not just a client, you're part of a community.

I believe in creating art that reflects the rich tapestry of human experiences and identities, weaving in nods to historical art from medieval, midcentury, illustrative artwork and more. Whether you're looking for a small, meaningful piece or a bold statement tattoo, I'm here to collaborate with you and bring your vision to life. Let's create something beautiful together—book your tattoo appointment today!

Let’s work together!

So if you're looking for an artist who can bring a new perspective, approach, and consult to your brand’s messaging or your body’s ink look no further. I believe that art has the power to transform society, and I'd love to work with you to create a finished product that's as bold and unique as you are.

hello@sophiemctear.com

Book a tattoo with me


Selected Clients

Phoenix Suns
Twitter
Hot Topic
Scholastic Books
Almanac Beer Co.
Overtone
Stereogum
9:30 Club
Washington City Paper
Phoenix New Times
Threadless
University of Arizona
AJJ
Brian Baker (Minor Threat)
Car Seat Headrest
Chloe Moriondo

Selected features

Trio of Tucson Artists Have Transformative Plans for Grant Money, March 2023
INPRNT Artist Spotlight: Sophie McTear, January 2023
Non-Binary Artists You Need To See, September 2022
Art Gives: 8 Giftable Designs Supporting Amazing Charities, December 2021
365 Days of Pride: 5 Incredible LGBTQIA+ Artists Speak, June 2021

Selected Speaking Engagements

&gallery Panel Speaker: Monetizing Your Art, Marketing, & Merch, January 2023
&gallery Panel Speaker: Self Care & Art, January 2023
Threadless Live Interview: Pride Feature, June 2022
Mapping Q, University of Arizona Museum of Art, October 2020

Selected Awards

Arizona Commission on the Arts Research and Development Grant, 2023
National Council for Marketing and Public Relations, Gold Medallion Award, 2021


Exhibitions

2023

Group:
Bad Religion at &Gallery; Tucson, AZ

2022

Solo:

Pride Show with Trevor Mock at Crooked Tooth; Tucson, AZ

Group:
LORE: Creatures at &Gallery; Tucson, AZ
Wonders Illustrated at Hicks Art Center Gallery; Newtown, PA
Tucson is Hott AF at &Gallery; Tucson, AZ
Chroma at Groundworks; Tucson, AZ
Reclaimed Art Show at Pop Cycle; Tucson, AZ
Roots at Groundworks; Tucson, AZ

2021

Solo:
Sophie McTear Pride Exhibit at &Gallery; Tucson, AZ

Group:
Tucson City Hall Exhibit in Collaboration with the Tucson Mayor’s Office and The Arts Foundation for Tucson and Southern Arizona at Tucson City Hall; Tucson, AZ

2020

Group:
Meme Show at &Gallery; Tucson, AZ
Emergence at Subspace; Tucson, AZ
Picturing 2020 at University of Arizona Museum of Art; Tucson, AZ

2019

Solo:
Feature at Belle Starr Salon; Tucson, AZ
Feature at Crooked Tooth Brewing; Tucson, AZ
Feature at The Ninth House; Tucson, AZ
Featured Room at Hotel McCoy; Tucson, AZ

Group:
Paintstock on 4th Avenue; Tucson, AZ
Monster Drawing Rally at MOCA; Tucson, AZ

2018

Group:
The Gallery Pop-up; Tucson, AZ
Trans Day of Resilience at the Eon Center; Tucson, AZ
The Visible Woman at Haunted Hands Gallery; Tucson, AZ

2017

Group:
Sounds of the City Mainstage Showcase at the Black Cat; Washington, DC

2015

Group:
Show Posters Exhibit at Open Studio DC; Washington, DC
Salta Bloss Featured Artist at Rock & Roll Hotel; Washington, DC