Meet Courtney Kilpatrick – The Artist Behind Ultraviolet Tattoo & Piercing
From law student to tattooist, Courtney shares her journey, inspiration and love for the art of ink.
What starts as a gift can sometimes lead to a career—and that’s exactly how it happened for Courtney Kilpatrick. On her 16th birthday, her mum bought her a tattoo kit, more for fun than anything else. But that unexpected present sparked something deeper.
“I always knew I wanted to do art,” Courtney says. “But tattooing? I didn’t think I’d be doing that.” Fast forward a few years, and after studying law and philosophy, she found herself heading in a completely different direction.
From Hobby to Business
When lockdown hit, Courtney found herself with more time and the support of close friends willing to let her experiment. “I started tattooing during lockdown when a few friends asked me to try it,” she says. “I dropped out of uni not long after, and while it wasn’t planned, I’m so glad I followed that path.”
With no formal apprenticeship, she taught herself, practising on fake skin and eventually tattooing from her mum’s garage. “Some of my earliest customers still remember that!”
Today, she runs Ultraviolet, her own tattoo and piercing studio in Limavady.
What’s Limavady’s Tattoo Scene Like?
Courtney describes Limavady as an open-minded town when it comes to tattoos. “A lot of people are quite enthusiastic about piercings and tattoos. It’s much more accepted now, and I’ve found that people here love to express themselves through body art.”
Realism, Placement & Meaning
Asked about the types of tattoos she enjoys, Courtney doesn’t hesitate. “I love realism. I wouldn’t say it’s underrated, but it’s one of my favourites to work on. It can take a bit more time, but it’s worth it.”
As for placement, she notes that fine line tattoos on the ribs are becoming increasingly popular. “They look great, but they can be painful, and not everyone realises that before they come in.”
Tattoos That Tell a Story
Some tattoos are just for fun, but others carry deep meaning. Courtney remembers one client in particular: a woman who had just beaten cancer and came in with her daughter to get a matching tattoo.
“I’d heard about her story for years. It was really special to finally meet her and be part of that moment.”
Tips for First-Timers
Courtney understands that getting a first tattoo or piercing can be intimidating. Her advice? “Start small. Pick a placement that feels manageable, and don’t overthink it. And make sure you’re at least 18!”
A Favourite of Her Own
When asked about her favourite tattoo on herself, Courtney says it’s hard to choose—but one stands out. “I have a little CCTV camera on my arm. It was one of my first tattoos, and I did it on myself at 16. It’s tiny and has no real meaning, but I’ll always remember that feeling.”
Whether it’s a tiny first-time tattoo or a bold, meaningful piece, Courtney brings a thoughtful and artistic approach to every client she works with.
📍 Ultraviolet Tattoo & Piercing
47 Market Street, Limavady
Instagram: @ultravioIet.ink
Text 074 1429 9979 to book your appointment
