Thoughts on safe spaces.

Crucible Tattoo Co is a queer-owned and run studio, and our aim is to create an environment where everyone can feel comfortable and welcome regardless of their gender, sexuality, race, disability or any other factor that might see them made to feel uncomfortable or unsafe in some conventional tattoo studios. But just because we are a queer-owned studio, it’s unhelpful to state that it’s a safe space - as that can mean something different to every person. It can mean something different again in the context of tattooing, which can be a deeply emotional and vulnerable experience. So instead of just saying the words and leaving it at that, I’ll tell you what it means to me, and how I choose to put it into practice. Hopefully that will empower you to tell me what it means for you in return. To say it’s a safe space means nothing unless it makes YOU feel safe.

It’s a huge honour to have the trust placed in me to make tattoos for my clients, and to permanently mark another person’s body! Tattooing has the potential be a magical, healing and transformative experience. For me, the most special part of tattooing is being able to help others embrace their bodies the way tattooing has helped me embrace mine. It means the world to me to be able to pass that on, and to be a small part of my clients’ journeys of existing in their bodies. To choose to adorn your body is to make a statement that says ‘my body is worthy and it deserves to be adorned’! I love to see clients look at their tattooed bodies with love and excitement - it’s magical to be a part of that, and I’m endlessly humbled by it.

I understand the range of emotions we encounter during an experience like getting a tattoo. Some people might already have a lot of tattoos and feel pretty chill about getting another one. Some might be getting their first tattoo and be quite anxious. Anyone can have a complicated relationship with their body, and tattooing can bring some complicated feelings to the forefront. I try to cultivate a judgment free space in which you are welcome to express how you feel - if you’re excited, anxious, uncertain, happy, or a combination of all the above… however you are feeling is ok, and I will do my best to observe that, talk it through, answer any questions, and help you feel as comfortable as I can. I aim to leave plenty of time between bookings so that we can take it slow, consider, be present, and not feel under extra stress. 

I will never pressure you into any decisions about your tattoo. I’m here to advise you on what will work best for the tattoo and the design or the placement, and to be realistic about what we can do, but the final decisions are yours. If at any point you are feeling uncomfortable or unsure, please try to let me know.

Safe spaces can only really be practiced if we are able to communicate with each other, so I invite you to ask for what you need: to change the temperature in the room, have a drink, a break, take some time to think on your decisions, have a blanket for comfort, change the music, have a snack, have a support person present in the room with you. If there is anything else I can do to help you feel comfortable in the space please don’t be afraid to let me know. I want to create a tattoo experience for both of us that centres patience, kindness and respect. I want you to feel grounded, taken care of, and comfortable while you get tattooed. You can talk as much or as little as you’d like, or listen to your own headphones if you prefer. I love a chill vibe and a chat but I tend not to talk all the way through a tattoo, as the process can take a lot of physical and mental energy and concentration.

In the practice of striving to make a safe space for my clients, I also need to work to make sure it’s a safe space for myself and my colleagues. Crucible is not a space for any homophobia, transphobia, ableist or racist language, and all the artists are very conscious of not tattooing imagery that could be culturally insensitive. I discourage any bodyshaming language also - as we can sometimes use it about ourselves, not realising it might affect other people in the room. If you do bring another person to your appointment, please ensure that they are aware of the practices we try to uphold, and that they are willing to interact with the space and people present in a considerate way.

All of the artists at the studio appreciate that you ask before taking photos of them, and likewise we can a) not take photos of your tattoo, b) take photos for you or for my archive but not post them, or c) look through the photos and delete any you’re not comfortable with, and agree on which ones you’re happy to have online.

My room is semi-private - there is sometimes one other artist working in the same room, and people passing through in the hallways. If you would prefer a completely private space, please let me know in advance so I can arrange to swap stations with another artist.

Tattooing is very possible on skin with texture, scarring and stretch marks etc, and if you’re worried about your tattoo and need to talk it through, or if the tattoo is very large or an unusual placement, I offer free in-person consultations in advance of the tattoo. Colour tattoos can feel inaccessible for clients with darker skin tones, but please don’t feel like you’re unable to get the tattoos that you want. I’m happy to offer free colour tests for POC to find what heals well on your skin. We can do small intentional designs such as rainbows / coloured flowers etc, so that you don’t have to get a tattoo of coloured dots that you might not want. I am doing my best to continually educate myself on best practices for tattooing dark skin, and I’d love to work with you to pick the best colours and make a really beautiful tattoo for you.

I’m so proud to be part of a group of people who are passionate about tattooing in the most respectful and conscientious way possible. I’d like to thank you for reading this, and for being part of what makes Crucible so special. If you have anything you feel you need to bring up with me before, during or after your tattoo, please know that I’m open to listening.

germ x

We are uninvited guests and settlers on this land, and in recognition of this and in solidarity with First Nations Australians, myself and Crucible Tattoo Co pay the rent.