About Us

• Michelle Balhan describes herself as “a versatile tattooist with a passion for exploring all styles of my craft”. Born in Chicago suburbs with a touch of the “crazies”, Michelle become involved in the tattoo industry during the year of 1993 and began tattooing in 1996. A pleaser by nature, her love of tattooing allows her to make the customer happy working on a design they present to her or by creating something based upon the customers ideas and inspirations. Inspired by a communal rhythm that moves through the universe and creates a connectedness between humanity and nature, she brings a sense of flow and balance to her designs. Vivid color is dominant in her work reflecting the colorful personalities she meets on a regular basis. She welcomes the challenge to create unique tattoos which express emotion and mark moments in the life of her clients. Outside of tattooing, Michelle tries her hand at painting, loves to travel but mostly enjoys spending time with family and friends conversing about life’s joys and obstacles.
  
  Velvet Lotus Tattoo is Iowa City's latest option for quality, professional tattoos in a clean, sterile, yet comfortable, and friendly environment. Owned and operated by Michelle Balhan, a professional tattoo artist of 17 years, Velvet Lotus Tattoo offers Iowa City experience and expertise. The aim is to guide you in the tattooing process, educating on what will work for a long lasting, quality tattoo of a lifetime. Here your ideas will be treated with care and concern whether your tattoo is to be a meaningful one or one just for fun! You can bring in a design, collaborate with the artist for your design or choose from a selection of designs to gain the perfect tattoo for you. The choice is yours and at Velvet Lotus Tattoo, we choose YOU!