About the Artist

First, thank you to all of the people who have helped me on this long and winding journey. You know who you are. Seriously, THANK YOU.

✧ ✧ ✧

I’m Grey (they/them). I’m a queer, trans non-binary, mixed (white and Korean) tattoo artist living on the occupied territory of the Multnomah, Cowlitz, Confederated Tribes of Siletz and Grand Ronde, and Umatilla peoples, the original stewards of this land—also known as Portland, Oregon.

I became interested in tattooing when I was a kid, I was always doodling on my hand or drawing designs in the margins of my math tests. Some other mediums I like include graphite, black and grey ink, mixed media, and charcoal. Out of all the things I create, the gifts I make for my loved ones are my favorites. I think that’s why I love being a tattoo artist so much, every design is an offering made with intention and care.

I’m inspired by sci-fi and horror films (like Pan’s Labyrinth, Susperia, and HellBender), animation/stop motion things (like Miyakazi movies and the Quay brothers), music (like Ethel Cain, Title Fight, Have Mercy) and natural+spiritual things (like the elements, death, decay, rebirth, tarot cards, plant friends, etc.). I LOVE symbolism and working with it to see the world around us through a lens of deeper meaning.

Before I was tattooing, I spent my time working lots of different customer/food service and caregiving jobs, volunteering as an advocate for trans and queer youth (specifically around policy change and mental health resources), and working as a mental health technician with teenagers.

I utilize a trauma-informed practice (thank you to Tamara Santibanez and their amazing work) and will continue to develop that practice as my career goes on. I acknowledge that there will always be room to grow, listen to, and learn from others. It’s important to me that I create a space where you feel safe, and know that every part of you is welcome. I’m always open to receiving feedback from you about what I can do better or differently!

Thank you again to everyone who has helped me get to where I am now, and who are helping me get to where I want to go next.

With so much love,

Grey