Our Team

Keith Kennedy, founder and operator of Tribal Expression, is one of Canada’s most experienced and formally trained body piercers, with over 30 years of hands-on professional experience. Throughout his career, Keith has become widely recognized for his technical precision, leadership in sterilization innovation, and his dedication to elevating professional piercing standards in Alberta and beyond.

Keith’s commitment to excellence is not theoretical — it is deeply demonstrated in the way Tribal Expression operates. Long before “individual sterilization” became an industry talking point, Keith designed Tribal Expression around surgical-grade principles, implementing immediate-use sterilization, Class 5 integrators, biological testing, and transparent sterilization practices that are now considered among the highest standards in North America.

He continually strengthens his expertise by attending advanced courses, workshops, and medical-grade sterilization and infection-control seminars around the world. A lifelong student of his craft, Keith has earned over 15 formal credentials and professional certifications, spanning topics such as anatomy, sterilization science, aseptic technique, wound healing physiology, and advanced piercing methodology.

Beyond piercing, Keith is highly skilled in specialized body modification arts, including scarification, branding, and suspension, disciplines that require exceptional anatomical understanding, surgical steadiness, and absolute trust from clients.

But Keith’s work extends far beyond the studio. He is deeply committed to community service and to using his skills to make a positive impact. Through Tribal Expression, Keith offers free gang-related and hate-based tattoo removals, helping individuals leave harmful pasts behind and reclaim their identity. He regularly supports local charities, community events, and educational initiatives, believing that a business should contribute meaningfully to the wellbeing of the community it serves.

With a passion for craftsmanship, education, and integrity, Keith continues to shape not only the Tribal Expression brand but also the broader body-modification and piercing community. His leadership has helped Tribal Expression remain a trusted institution for more than two decades — and one of the most respected piercing studios in Canada.
It is vital to Tribal’s Owner to ensure the safety and well-being of all the shop’s clients. Keith ensures that the shop is furnished with the most cutting-edge sterilization tools, and he has put a strict protocol in place for all treatments.

Over the years, Keith has become a trusted source of information for the media, appearing regularly with more than 15 different sources. Some local outlets include; The Calgary Herald, CTV, and Global. He has also provided his professional perspectives and knowledge to a vast audience on CBC, The Discovery Channel, and The Rutherford Show.

Keith participated in creating Federal Health Guidelines for professional piercers with Health Canada and regularly collaborates with Alberta Health Services regarding matters of piercing, branding, scarification, and education.

Keith was born and raised in Calgary, where he still resides with his wife, two daughters, and two sons. Keith is an Aquarius that enjoys hiking and spending time with his family.