The Artists
At Black Coffee Apparel, we believe that clothing is more than just style - it's a platform for creativity and expression. That's why we collaborate with local artists to bring unique designs that tell a story. Every piece you wear helps showcase their talent giving them the exposure they deserve.
We invite you to explore the artist behind the designs, learn about their work, and support their creative journeys:
Bree Rawn
Bree Rawn is a queer, non-binary illustrative designer living and working in Toronto ON. Currently the resident Graphic Designer and Illustrator at Dine Alone Records, Bree designs everything from marketing materials, vinyl packaging to merchandise of all kinds.
In addition to working in house, Bree also works on a freelance basis. They work closely with clients to create engaging illustrations, posters, logos and merch. Brands Bree has worked with include Brockton Haunt, Town Brewery, Finger Eleven, Larry’s Folly, Laylow Brewery, Born & Raised Festival, as well as many musical artists and bands.
Learn more about Bree Rawn
Heather Bisaillion
Born and raised in Ottawa, Heather Bisaillion is a local tattoo artist specializing in American Traditional. She got her start with Graphic Design at Algonquin College. In college is when Heather got her first tattoo, and knew it wouldn't be the last. This inspired a huge passion for tattoo culture. Shortly after completing the program, she decided it was time to make dreams a reality. She got her apprenticeship in 2018 and in 2019 did her first tattoo on skin. Heather's tattoos can be described as bold yet soft, using bright colours and contrast.
Outside of tattooing Heather is mom to two cats, Dahlia and Ivy. It's guaranteed that when she is drawing at home, there is at least one cat keeping her company. Heather also enjoys going to music/drag shows, local markets, and enjoying Ottawa's best food spots. She loves her city - it's small but mighty. Its creative side is growing, and that is something that inspires her. To grow with a city is truly a beautiful thing!
See more of Heather's work on Instagram
Jesse Germs
Jesse Germs has been tattooing professionally for over 13 year but his connection to the community started much earlier "I was hanging around tattoo shops as a teenager". A lifelong artist, he has been drawing and painting for as long as he can remember, making a career in the arts a natural path. Growing up, he was fascinated by the bold tattoos worn by family and friends, an obsession that eventually led him to the world of tattooing. His background in band art and graffiti helped him gain recognition, ultimately leading to his apprenticeship.
While traditional tattooing makes up most of his work, Jesse’s overall artistic style leans towards lowbrow—favouring simple materials and techniques to create striking, unconventional designs.
Jesse loves Ottawa’s unique balance between of being equal parts a big city and a small town. "Its proximity to larger cities offers an easy escape, but its underground culture provides plenty for those who seek it out. By day, it’s a government town; by night, it belongs to the artists, the night owls, and the outsiders." To truly experience Ottawa’s creative scene, you have to participate—something Jesse has embraced throughout his career.
See more of Jesse Germs on Instagram
Pat Buck
Bio coming soon...
Robert Lariviere
Robert Lariviere, known as FALLDOWNG, is a husband, father, and full-time local artist. Originally from Cornwall, he moved to Ottawa after high school.
With a lifelong passion for drawing and a fascination with street art, his journey as an artist was shaped by early experiences in retail, where he connected with local creatives. Inspired by the murals around the city and the artists he met, he was driven to paint—purely for the love of it—while showcasing his work and fostering a sense of community.
His dedication to the Ottawa art scene led to organizing club nights to promote local talent, bring people together, and create opportunities for artists to sell their work. Initiatives such as The Collective Seen, House of Paint, and Waves reflect this commitment. Ottawa is home to many talented artists, and he considers it a privilege to be part of this thriving creative community.
See more of FallDownG on Instagram
Wayne McFarlane
Wayne McFarlane has always been interested in art and counterculture in general. He spent several years in the skateboarding scene, participating in some local competitions, before studying graphic design. His evolution naturally led him to the world of tattooing. Wayne was drawn to this art form because it offered him a freedom he couldn’t find anywhere else.
Wayne opened his studio, Atelier Les Malins, in L'Assomption in June 2022, and he has been tattooing full-time since February 2023. He is building a reputation as a meticulous artist, successfully creating timeless traditional pieces. His style could be described as traditional, with European influences and a touch of pop culture. Wayne aims to preserve the essence of the great legends who created the classic, easily recognizable tattoo style.
See more of Wayne McFarlane's work on Instagram