Meet Noah Elder, a distinguished Jewish tattoo artist based in Chicago, who stands out as one of the region’s few artists specializing in bespoke Hebrew lettering tattoos. A proud native of Highland Park and an alumnus of MSU, Noah is revolutionizing the landscape of custom Hebrew tattoos in both the city and its surrounding areas. His dedication extends beyond his artistic craft to Tikun Olam, a Jewish concept of repairing the world, which is vividly demonstrated through his collaboration with Healing Ink, an organization dedicated to covering the scars of mass violence survivors with tattoos. This profile is part of ChiTribe’s Jewish Person of the Week series, offering an in-depth look at influential figures within the Jewish community. Nominate someone you admire here>>
Important Note: Despite traditional interpretations of the Torah discouraging tattooing, it is widely accepted that Jews with tattoos are still eligible for burial in Jewish cemeteries.
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Noah Elder Art / קעקועים (@the.tattoo.jew) • Instagram photos and videos
“I cater to a significant portion of the Jewish community in Chicagoland seeking Hebrew tattoos. Furthermore, I actively seek opportunities to embody Tikun Olam through my work. My recent involvement with Healing Ink, a project under Artists 4 Israel, has been particularly meaningful. We provide complimentary tattoos to victims and first responders in areas affected by mass violence.”
Noah Elder, Jewish Person of the Week
Highland Park Roots and Jewish Identity
“I spent the majority of my formative years in Highland Park, Illinois,” Noah shares, reflecting on his upbringing. His Jewish identity was nurtured through active participation in Young Judaea and his father’s Congregation Hakafa, where he contributed as a Hebrew and Sunday school teacher during his high school years.
Academic and Artistic Foundation
Noah’s passion for art led him to Michigan State University, where he earned a BFA in Graphic Design in 2020. He broadened his artistic horizons with minors in Photography and Comic Arts, creating a robust foundation for his tattooing career.
Fusing Jewish Values with Tattoo Artistry
“Currently, a large part of my work involves serving the Chicagoland Jewish community with Hebrew tattoos,” Noah explains. His commitment to Tikun Olam is not just a concept but a practice integrated into his profession. His collaboration with Healing Ink allows him to offer solace and artistic expression in the aftermath of tragedy. “These experiences are incredibly impactful,” he notes, acknowledging Craig Dershowitz and Rick Matros of Healing Ink. Additionally, Noah extends his compassionate artistry by providing free cover-up tattoos for hate symbols, aiming to eradicate hateful imagery from the world. These initiatives reflect his dedication to the Jewish values instilled in him, manifesting through his art.
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Shabbat and Chicago Favorites
Family plays a central role in Noah’s life, especially Shabbat. “I cherish spending Shabbat weekly with my Mom’s family; it’s a tradition that has been a constant in my life.” When asked about his Chicago bucket list, Noah’s aspirations are relatable and fun: “Attending a Bears game, dining at Alinea (someday!), and witnessing another Bulls championship.”
Cultural Appreciation and Relaxation
Noah’s appreciation for Jewish culture extends to film, as he enthusiastically mentions, “I absolutely love the annual Israeli Film festival in Chicago.” To unwind, Noah enjoys the simple pleasures of “hanging out with my shop team or spending time with my dog. I’m a bit of a homebody when I’m not working.” His self-care routine is equally straightforward: “A hot shower, coffee, and a good podcast.”
Bar Mitzvah Nostalgia and Dream Dinner Guest
Reflecting on his Bar Mitzvah era, Noah fondly recalls, “It has to be ‘DJ Got us Fallin in Love Again’ by Usher—always a hit.” If given the chance to dine with any famous Jewish personality, living or deceased, his choice is immediate: “Larry David, without a doubt. A comedy icon. It would be ‘pretty, pretty, good!'”
Connect with Noah for Your Tattoo Vision
Latin Ink Tattoo Studio | 1016 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
[Email Noah](mailto:[email protected]) | Instagram: @the.tattoo.jew
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