S.J. Tattoo: Where Art, Healing, and Storytelling Meet

Shelly Peterson
2 hours ago
2 min read

Listen to Podcast Here: S.J. Tattoo

For Cassie Jares, tattooing is more than art — it’s restoration, renewal, and a way to reconnect with purpose. After spending five demanding years in Wyoming as an emergency medical technician, Cassie returned home to Cloquet with her husband seeking a new direction. The couple had spent their twenties working in high-stress public safety roles as first responders and law enforcement professionals. Coming back to Minnesota opened the door to the next chapter.

Cassie wasted no time rediscovering her creative roots. She enrolled at Lake Superior College to pursue a fine arts degree, a passion that had always lived in the background since high school. Meanwhile, her husband found meaningful work supporting facility needs for area businesses, giving both of them the stability and space to rebuild their lives.

Turning Passion Into Purpose

Cassie began exploring tattoo artistry and quickly discovered how naturally her love of design, expression, and emotional connection translated into the medium. What started as creative exploration soon became the foundation of S.J. Tattoo, a studio serving clients across Cloquet, Duluth, and Superior.

“Art tells a story and helps you heal your soul. This work is my passion project,” Cassie shares.

Her studio reflects the heart of who she is, a blend of Wyoming mountains, horseback trail imagery, and the calming aesthetic that shaped her journey. Located at 905 Cloquet Avenue in Downtown Cloquet, the space feels both intimate and expressive, intentionally designed to foster comfort and creativity.

In just a short time, her schedule has grown so full that she is booked out two to three months in advance. Every appointment on her calendar comes from word-of-mouth referrals, a testament to her talent, gentle approach, and growing reputation.

A Philosophy Rooted in Respect

Cassie approaches tattooing with humility and intention. She strongly believes in guiding clients while respecting their personal autonomy.

“It’s your body — your decision,” Cassie says. “I’m not competitive. I only compete with myself and want to deliver the product people are looking for. I get better with each tattoo I do.”

Her clients describe her as thoughtful, patient, and grounded —an artist who honors the emotional significance behind the ink.

Life on the Lake, Art in Her Heart

Today, Cassie and her husband live on family property near Big Lake, embracing a quieter lifestyle that allows them to reconnect with nature. An introvert at heart, she finds peace painting, riding horses, spending time outdoors, and relaxing by a good bonfire.

She also navigates life with chronic illness, managing her schedule with consistency and transparency. Her clients appreciate the grace she offers the process — and the authenticity she brings to every piece of art she creates.

A Growing Creative Force in Cloquet

S.J. Tattoo continues to flourish — not through advertising campaigns or aggressive marketing but through genuine human connection and personal recommendations. Cassie’s work blends technical skill, storytelling, and emotional depth, drawing clients who seek art with meaning.

Whether it’s a first tattoo or a full-sleeve project, Cassie approaches every session with the same philosophy: create something beautiful, meaningful, and lasting.