Rising Stars: Meet Rhona Shand McBain of Pittsburg

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rhona Shand McBain.

Hi Rhona, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
After hopping across the pond from Scotland, I migrated from Detroit to Dallas to Dayton, then through South Carolina, Baltimore, and Savannah before settling in Pittsburg, KS. I spent 16 years as a professor at Pittsburg State University before I decided to transition to a full-time tattoo artist. Now, I own and operate my studio, Odd Animals Ink. I still have a strong urge to wander, and I love bringing my travels and experiences back home.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The transition from university professor to tattoo artist was a unique leap. Processing the career change, loss of my spouse and joy of realizing the power of my inner strength taught me to navigate this new day-to-day with empathy and fiery independence. The road to success is never smooth, and that’s okay. We learn, grow and become better people by looking into the mirrors of our hardships.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m specifically known for medium- to large-sized custom tattoos, but what sets me apart is my clients. Having traveled to several conventions across the country, I’ve had the opportunity to tattoo people from all walks of life. I enjoy meeting, chatting with, and learning about their life experiences almost as much as I enjoy tattooing them. Their stories and conversations feed the life of the studio. Odd Animals Ink is about creating quality, custom tattoos and each client’s joy in the experience. Odd Animals Ink is not necessarily a building or a spot on a map but a place for all walks of life to find common ground. Regardless of your beliefs, story, or background, we are all unique.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My clients one hundred percent, tattooing is such a collaborative experience for both the artist and the client. I could only do what I do with so many people excited about my work. I also have a wonderful support system in my group of friends, as well as current and past assistants, who’ve helped me with everything from dog-sitting and managing my crazy schedule to lending an ear to work out my dreams. I don’t know where I’d be without these awesome people.

Contact Info:

• Website: bainink.com & oddanimalsink.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/bainink
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/baininkart