More Than Skin Deep: Inside The FALL Tattooing’s Creative Culture

Since 2007, The FALL has earned a reputation as one of Vancouver’s premier tattoo and piercing studios, combining custom body art with creativity, craftsmanship, and community. More than a studio, it’s a dynamic artistic space where self-expression and client experience are at the heart of everything they do.

V13 Media connected with Laura Gollner, Operations Administrator at The FALL Tattooing Inc., to discuss the studio’s evolution, creative philosophy, and enduring passion for the craft.

How would you describe The FALL to someone who’s never been here before?

Laura Gollner: “The FALL is more than a tattoo and piercing studio—it’s a vibrant art space. Home to award-winning tattoo artists and professional piercers, the studio is filled with stunning murals, curated artwork, and showcases of high-end custom body jewellery. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or getting your very first tattoo or piercing, The FALL offers a welcoming, creative environment that’s well worth experiencing.”

What kind of experience do you want people to have the moment they walk into your studio?

“At The FALL, we aim to deliver a level of service you didn’t even know you were missing. From our front-of-house team to our artists and piercers, every step of your experience is considered. Our staff go the extra mile to help you find the perfect piece—whether that’s high-quality body jewellery or a tattoo style that truly fits you.”

The Fall Tattoo Studio, photo by Laura Gollner

The FALL has been around since 2007 – what’s stayed the same, and what’s changed the most over the years?

“The same level of care we started with over 20 years ago is still here from the moment you walk through the door—but the artwork never stands still. We’re constantly evolving the space, adding new murals, projects, and display cabinets to keep things fresh, inspiring, and always worth another visit.”

What does ‘Custom Work’ mean to your team in practice, day to day?

“Custom work means a one-of-a-kind design created specifically for your skin. Every piece is made to measure—developed through listening to your ideas and collaborating with our artists to turn your concept into something that truly fits you.”

How do you approach working with a client who isn’t totally sure what they want yet?

“For clients who aren’t quite sure what they want, we start right at the beginning. That might mean exploring placement on the body or discussing any ideas, themes, or sentiments that are meaningful to them. From there, our artists begin shaping those thoughts into an initial concept.

“Clients are part of the process from the start—watching their ideas take form through early sketches, which are then refined and developed collaboratively until both the client and the artist are completely happy with the final design.”

The Fall Tattoo Studio, photo by Nany @nanyunusual_art

What do you think makes a tattoo or piercing feel truly well-executed, beyond just the final look?

“A well-executed tattoo or piercing takes time, care, and thoughtful planning. There are many factors to consider along the way—from allowing space for future projects to ensuring angles and placement work seamlessly with existing pieces.

“We encourage open communication throughout the process, giving clients plenty of opportunity to ask questions, explore options, and adjust placement where possible—always working within what will heal and age best.”

Your piercers follow APP standards. Why is that level of hygiene and training so important to you?

“New methods and products are constantly evolving within the piercing industry. By maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and ongoing training, we ensure our clients receive the safest, most comfortable experience possible.”

The Fall Tattoo Studio, photo by Adam Stephenson @notjustapiercer

How do you help first-time clients feel comfortable if they’re nervous about getting tattooed or pierced?

“We believe in keeping everything clear and easy to understand, explaining each step in simple terms so every client feels confident and informed. First-time clients are reassured from the outset, with small touches to help them relax—like a calming stress ball during the procedure and even a sweet treat afterwards.”

What role does Vancouver’s art and culture scene play in shaping the studio’s identity?

“Vancouver’s local art and subcultural scenes played a vital role in our identity. We hosted art shows from local graffiti and other visual artists, musicians, sculptors, and performance artists alike. After lockdowns, we stopped hosting events and have shifted our focus to tattoo and piercing culture exclusively in an effort to grow that side of our business in the current economy. But we still carry the ideals that made us try hard to support local subculture art scenes.  We have recently hosted a pottery workshop, currently hang works from in-house artists, and showcase a tattoo-themed art display in our studio.”

The Fall Tattoo Studio, photo by Adam Stephenson @notjustapiercer

The FALL also supports alternative and multimedia artists. Why was that something you wanted to build into the space?

“We tried to approach the concept of becoming a hub for local artists with inclusivity. We wanted to give subcultural artists with a variety of backgrounds and preferred mediums a space and opportunity for exposure.”

What’s something people might not recognize that goes into creating a safe and high-quality tattooing and piercing experience?

“I think when people enter The FALL, they mainly see the finished product, which is a working art space.  It’s hard to see the underlying logistical minefield that has to be navigated to make it all come together. From sourcing repairs on equipment when the repair companies only work with dental offices to financing an art-based business when banks are already apprehensive to work with our industry, or inventory management for thousands of tiny jewellery products, we not only adhere to sterility standards, but we set the bar, which means training for staff and proper equipment to be used.”

After all these years, what still excites your team most about coming into the studio each day?

“Our team genuinely enjoys coming to work, sharing ideas, and talking about the projects they’re passionate about. By exchanging different techniques and approaches, we keep each other inspired, motivated, and constantly evolving in our craft.”