Opportunity
Learn and grow with the IslandTAT family
IslandTAT is a family of artists who hold each other accountable. We are preparing a way for people to express interest in learning with us. You don't need prior tattoo experience, and you don't need any particular ancestry or cultural background. What matters is integrity, drive, humility, dependable communication and real care for the people you serve.
ApplyWhat we value
- Mutual accountability
- Cultural stewardship
- Discipline and commitment
- Consistency
- Service
- Respect
- Learning
Joshawa's role
Joshawa Elsas founded IslandTAT and has been tattooing since 1999. In his cultural role, he serves as Sacred Tatau Artist to the Aliʻi Nui of the Polynesian Kingdom of Atooi.
That role carries responsibility for how we serve people, teach, and care for cultural traditions. No one artist speaks for every Polynesian tradition. Learning here means learning respect for the cultures behind the work, and knowing when a question belongs to the people of that culture.
Where learning starts
At least the first month focuses on foundational studio practice: supervised cleaning and hygiene routines, client service, observation and learning how the studio runs day to day.
Compensation, training structure, schedule and all applicable lawful terms will be explained and agreed in writing before anyone takes part. Nothing on this page sets a wage, fee or schedule.
Growing over time
Growth is intended within IslandTAT. Over the long term, that could include helping develop IslandTAT studios in other parts of the world. That is an aspiration, not a promise: it is not a franchise, ownership opportunity, placement, qualification or guaranteed career result.
What applying means
Applying is an expression of interest. It is not an offer of employment or enrollment, and it is not a contract. Applying creates no debt or financial obligation of any kind.
What happens next
A person at the studio reads every application. If it seems like a good fit, we'll reach out for a conversation. We can't promise a reply by a certain date, and applications are not scored or ranked automatically.