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How to Become a Body Artist: Australian Careers in Beauty Therapy

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What is a Body Artist?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Body Artist?

A body artist decorates or modifies the human body using tattooing, piercing, branding, and scarification. These artists blend creative skill with a strong knowledge of health and safety to help clients express their identity.

Body artists work in tattoo studios, beauty clinics, and as sole traders. They consult with clients, design custom artwork, and carry out procedures using sterile tools. Building a loyal client base is a key part of the job.

The work needs artistic talent and technical precision. Body artists must follow strict hygiene rules and meet state health laws, which vary across Australia. In Queensland and New South Wales, specific licensing is required before you can practise legally.

Around 3,700 body artists work in Australia, with a moderate outlook for future demand (Your Career, Australian Government, 2024). About half work part-time, and flexible hours are common in this creative field.

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Career snapshots For Body Artists

There are around 3,700 body artists employed in Australia, with future demand rated as moderate (Your Career, Australian Government, 2024). About 49% work full-time, averaging 42 hours per week (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2024). The median age is 32, and 49% of the workforce is female. Average weekly earnings are $1,224, around $63,600 per year. Body artists primarily work in the other services industry and are classified under ANZSCO code 451814.

What will I do?

Body artists use creative skill and technical know-how to modify or decorate the human body. They work with clients to design and apply tattoos, perform piercings, and carry out other body art procedures. Each day combines creative work with strict hygiene and health compliance.

  • Client consults: talking through design ideas, placement options, and any concerns before a procedure.
  • Artwork design: creating custom designs by hand or using digital tools based on client briefs.
  • Workspace prep: sterilising tools, setting up equipment, and ensuring a clean environment.
  • Tattoo application: using a tattoo machine to apply ink to the skin with precision and care.
  • Body piercing: inserting jewellery safely and cleanly at the client’s chosen site.
  • Aftercare advice: explaining how to care for fresh tattoos or piercings during healing.
  • Client records: logging consent forms, health details, and procedure notes.
  • Keeping current: researching new techniques, styles, and health rules in the industry.

What skills do I need?

A body artist needs a blend of artistic talent, technical skill, and a solid grasp of health and safety. Drawing ability, colour theory, and an eye for design are core to creating quality work. Body artists also need steady hands, patience, and the ability to translate a client’s vision into a precise, lasting result.

Communication skills matter too. Body artists guide clients through the design process, explain aftercare, and manage expectations clearly. They must keep their workspace sterile, follow state health regulations, and maintain accurate client records. Ongoing learning is important, as trends and techniques evolve constantly in this field.

Skills/attributes

  • Drawing and design skills
  • Colour theory and visual composition
  • Technical skill with tattooing and piercing tools
  • Attention to detail
  • Knowledge of skin anatomy
  • Infection control and sterilisation practices
  • Understanding of state health and safety regulations
  • Client communication and consultation skills
  • Aftercare education and guidance
  • Record keeping and client management
  • Time management and scheduling
  • Patience and calm under pressure
  • Adaptability to different styles and techniques
  • Self-promotion and portfolio development

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.