Dean McKee creates custom tattoos, cover-ups, vacation, memorial tattoos, and fine line work at Inside Ink Tattoo Studio in Largo, Florida.
The Muse
Aphrodite was never just a drawing.
This piece was created by Dean McKee while he was still wrongfully incarcerated—inside the pages of a prison art book, using whatever colored pencils he could quietly get his hands on.
Art supplies were not freely given.
They were often considered contraband.
Something as simple as a pencil could come with consequences.
And yet—he created anyway.
Inspired by Greek mythology and his deep love for the ocean, Aphrodite became something more than art.
She became an escape.
A connection to beauty, to freedom, to something beyond concrete walls and locked doors.
While his body was confined, his mind was exploring the world through reading and art...
This piece reflects:
• A longing for the sea
• A connection to classical beauty and mythology
• The quiet strength it takes to hold onto creativity when everything around you tries to take it away
What was once drawn in confinement now lives in freedom.
Today, Aphrodite is part of the Inside Ink collection—transformed into wearable art and prints that carry the story forward.
Every piece you see here is a continuation of that journey.
All apparel is printed on-demand by Ninja POD, a US-based print facility. Quality you can feel, shipped in 2–4 business days.
“Aphrodite was something I created when I needed to feel free.
I’ve always loved the ocean, and Greek mythology gave me a way to go somewhere else mentally when I couldn’t physically.
Seeing it out in the world now… that means everything to me.”
— Dean
Aphrodite
Wear it. Hang it. Share the story.
Every piece supports independent art, second chances, and a life rebuilt through creativity.
Want to make it personal?
We can incorporate your favorite beach, location, or meaningful place into the design.
👉 Reach out to us and we’ll create something custom just for you.