About
Around the summer of 2024, Mica and Vy converged in search of a space where we could listen and be heard -- as easily overlooked women of color, we were frustrated with the lack of representation and accessibility we saw and felt within the body mod community of LA. Slowly but surely, we found a wonderful set of artists through social media and running into each other at events. Together we started formulating the structure with the help of Vy’s whip-smart community work and Mica’s media and culture degrees. A lucky Craigslist listing found us our current studio in East Hollywood and by August, we were up and running. We are officially in our second year as a studio and transitioning to a new phase where Billy (who has been an essential instrument in keeping us organized and sane) helps take over the operations with Mica as Vy pours back into community aid and social works.
Our Mission
We intend to stand out as a space where tattooing is fun, restorative, and profoundly respectful of your individuality. STARKISSED LA is a collective effort to build a sanctuary where each of us can thrive. We are committed to the following principles:- Co-op Ownership: Our studio is co-operatively owned, ensuring that decisions are made collaboratively and reflect our collective values and vision.
- Sliding Scales: We offer sliding scale pricing to make tattooing accessible to a broader range of people. We understand that financial barriers should not prevent anyone from getting the art they desire.
- Tattoo Client Bill of Rights: Inspired by the Santibaez’ Tattoo Client Bill of Rights, we prioritize transparency, respect, and professionalism in every interaction.
Our Community Commitment
We are carefully building meaningful relationships with our neighbors in East Hollywood and the greater Los Angeles Metropolitan sprawl. We hope to foster local connections while being mindful of gentrification. We strive to engage with our neighbors and support local businesses, ensuring that our presence is a positive and integrative force within the community.We also stand in solidarity with Palestine and are committed to supporting humanitarian efforts and advocating for human rights and restorative justice.
Join Us
STARKISSED LA hopes to offer more than just tattoos—we’re hoping to inspire you as you come to the truest realization of yourself, while surrounded by a group of artists that care. Whether you’re looking for your next piece or simply want to connect with artists that want to collaborate and help you better reflect who you are, we’re excited to welcome you to our studio.We can’t wait to meet you and contribute to your journey of self-expression and confidence.