Memphis Mori

Memphis Mori is a Canadian tattoo entrepreneur, studio owner, writer, and community advocate based in Hamilton, Ontario. They are the founder of GRIM Studios, a long-established tattoo and body piercing studio recognized for its professional standards, inclusive environment, and longevity within the Hamilton tattoo community.

​

With more than a decade of experience in the tattoo industry, Mori’s work spans tattooing, business leadership, education, and harm-reduction initiatives. They are also the founder of Reth-Ink, a tattoo removal project providing free removal services for hate-related, gang-related, and trafficking-related tattoos. This work is rooted in community safety, accountability, and the belief that tattooing and removal can play a meaningful role in personal and social change.

​

Mori’s approach to tattooing is informed by queer and feminist principles, with a strong emphasis on consent, accessibility, and creating safer spaces within an industry that has historically excluded many voices. GRIM Studios is proudly queer- and woman-owned, and Mori has been vocal about the importance of inclusive practices, ethical business models, and harm-reduction frameworks in tattooing and body art.

​

In addition to studio ownership, Memphis Mori is the founder of Body Altar, a body jewelry and piercing-focused brand, further expanding their work across multiple areas of the body art industry. They have also held leadership and educational roles within the tattoo supply sector, contributing to professional development, artist education, and conversations around industry standards.

​

Mori is an established writer and commentator on tattoo culture, small business, and creative labour, having authored hundreds of articles across multiple platforms. Their writing draws on lived industry experience and frequently addresses the intersections of tattooing, identity, ethics, and community care.

​

Their work and advocacy have been featured in national and international media, including CBC, The Globe and Mail, and VICE, for contributions to tattoo culture, harm reduction, queer visibility, and community-based approaches to social issues. Through their businesses, writing, and public work, Memphis Mori continues to shape conversations around tattooing as both a craft and a cultural practice grounded in responsibility, care, and representation.

​