myth of haven

I'm Haven (they/elle/siya)! I am a genderfluid-transsexual, white-bodied human of mixed european (celtic/germanic/slavic) and filipinx (visayan/tagalog) lineage. I am a settler on occupied Kumeyaay Lands.

I am a former biomedical engineer navigating and unfurling and discovering my part within the wholeness of collective liberation.  I love to cook for those I care about, surf and skate, listen to stories, and tend to my community garden. I am passionate about building loving, relationship-based alternatives to state violence through transformative justice and invite you to explore my zine and collective I am coalescing here.

my relationship to tattooing

Adorning my trans vessel (body) with tattoo art has brought me boundless joy and healing. I have come to learn that the process of tattooing is transformative - the pain helps me come home to my vessel when the oppressive forces of the world cause me forget about it, and connecting with an affirming, caring tattoo artist is a tangible reminder of collective healing. Seeing my body covered with art brings me a feeling of euphoria beyond the confines of time and gender. Tattooing reminds me that my vessel is a landscape of creativity and connection that is simultaneously self and community-made. 

my tattoist journey

I started tattooing in January 2022 while working full-time outside my practice. I started tattooing more regularly February of 2023. I am community taught - practicing on fruit and fake skins, tattooing myself and friends, and by engaging with experienced trans/queer tattoo artists. I am forever thankful for those who continuously support my growth. You can see completed tattoos and healed photos here. 

I began tattooing out of kapwa garden private studio in Barrio Logan in March 2023. It is on the1st floor but unfortunately not wheelchair accessible. I am happy to recommend queer/trans tattoo artists nearby with wheelchair accessibility.  I am sensitive to artificial smells, so the space will likely only be filled with smells of essential oils or nothing at all. I ask that you please do not wear any scented sprays or lotions (this is also included in the tattoo appointment pre-care resource here). 

You can fill out the tattoo interest form and information will be sent privately upon booking. 

Other notes: COVID-19 and M-Pox are discussed in the consent form. Please wear a KN95 mask.