The tattoo community thrives on stories, identity, and the indelible mark of time. Within this vibrant world, Asian American tattoo artists are making significant waves, not just with their exceptional artistry but also by fostering a powerful sense of community and celebrating their heritage. We spoke with Celeste Lai, Sam, and Gabby, three talented tattoo artists, about their experiences as Asian Americans in the tattoo industry and what aspects of their community they hold dear. Their insights reveal a profound connection to resilience, cultural pride, and the importance of representation, all etched in time.
A Community Forged in Resilience
Celeste, who grew up in Taiwan, reflects on the concept of identity and the resilience inherent in the Asian American community. “I’m proud of the Asian American community because I have seen the true resilience,” she shares. Having experienced the nuances of Asian identity both in Taiwan and the US, Celeste appreciates the strength and unity she found in the Asian American community. Initially encountering limiting views on Asian identity, she discovered a welcoming embrace upon arriving in the US 15 years ago. This community, strengthened by the need to assert their visibility in the face of erasure, deeply values its Asian identity. For Celeste, this journey has been humbling, fostering a sense of belonging she cherishes as she continues to cultivate space within this community.
Sam echoes this sentiment, highlighting the community’s dedication to healing and progress. “I’m proud of the Asian American community for unlearning generational trauma together,” Sam states. This forward-looking perspective emphasizes the community’s commitment to growth and well-being, honoring their ancestors while building a healthier future. Their collective journey is a testament to the power of shared experience and the passage of time in shaping identity.
Gabby emphasizes the evolving visibility and self-care within the Asian community. “In recent years we have been making noise, being loud and proud of our communities and making ourselves seen,” Gabby notes. She recalls a time when finding a tattoo artist who shared her background seemed unimaginable. Now, Asian Americans are breaking barriers across industries, a cathartic experience particularly felt in New York City with its long-standing, resilient community. Arriving in New York three years ago, Gabby immediately felt seen and supported, and she aspires to reciprocate that care in her own work and interactions. This evolution reflects a significant shift over time, marking a period of increased visibility and empowerment.
Chinatown: A Timeless Hub of Culture and Connection
When asked about their favorite spots in Chinatown, all three artists point to the area’s cultural richness and deep personal connections. For Celeste, Pell Street stands out as her favorite block in the entire city, radiating a unique energy. She appreciates the curved street, a rarity in Manhattan, lined with Chinese characters, and the area’s classic establishments like Nom Wah Tea Parlor and Taiwan Pork Chop House, the latter providing a taste of home when she first arrived in 2007. This neighborhood serves as a “time capsule,” connecting her past and present.
Sam highlights Hwa Yuan Szechuan as a gathering place for tattoo artists, fostering camaraderie over shared meals. “Meeting new tattooers and bonding over duck and braised pork is such a lovely experience,” Sam describes, emphasizing the community building that happens within these cultural spaces over time.
Gabby also gravitates towards the Mott Street/Pell Street area, listing a plethora of beloved spots like Wing on Wo & Co., Yu and Me Books, Wo Hop, Noodle Village, Golden Unicorn, Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, and Alimama. This concentration of cultural treasures underscores Chinatown’s enduring appeal and its role as a timeless center for the Asian American community.
Conclusion: Inked in Time, Rooted in Community
Through their art and their reflections, Celeste, Sam, and Gabby showcase the strength, resilience, and vibrant culture of the Asian American community. Their tattoos are more than just ink on skin; they are expressions of identity, heritage, and a journey through time. As they continue to make their mark in the tattoo industry, they carry with them the pride of their community and a deep appreciation for the spaces and connections that have shaped them. Their stories, etched in time, resonate deeply within the tattoo world and beyond, celebrating the beauty and strength of Asian American identity.
