50. SWASTHIK IYENGAR - Indian tradition meets western tattooing

TATTOO TALES

I’m really happy to have had the chance to chat with Swasthik, she is such a beautiful presence in the tattoo world. Known as gunga_ma, for Swasthik tattooing runs deep in her blood. Her grandma, called Paccai Kutta Ma (tattoo mama), has been sticking and poking tattoos for over 40 years. Together with the spiritual practice she inherited growing up, she has been exposed from a young age to sacred symbols and rituals that reflects into her own art.

I admire her work not only for the craftsmanship, creativity and dedication behind it but also and especially for the spirit with which she infuses it. A strong work ethic where the personal relationship with customers is a priority and gratitude is foundation on which her work stands.

In the last years she has been progressively reconnecting more with her roots, especially the warrior women of the First Nation. In her words: “The women who bless me, guide me, show me strength. In our tradition, Women are Devi, women carry life, carry pain, carry compassion and carry wisdom.”

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