IslandTAT works only in Polynesian tattooing. Joshawa Elsas has been tattooing since 1999 and has spent that time studying Pacific tattoo traditions — Samoan tatau, Hawaiian kākau, Tongan tatatau, Māori tā moko and Marquesan design — as distinct traditions rather than a single interchangeable style.
If you are working within your own heritage, say so at the consultation. We talk through which elements belong to which tradition, what is appropriate to render in a contemporary studio setting, and what is not — for example, Samoan pe'a and malu are ceremonial and are not replicated here.
The studio is in Lemon Grove, a short distance north of Chula Vista in San Diego County, and is appointment-only. Check your own route and travel time when you book; consultations can start by phone or email before your first visit.
Larger compositions are built over multiple sessions, so ask about session length and spacing when you book. The Polynesian tattoo San Diego page below covers scheduling, deposits and studio details.
If you are planning a project from Chula Vista, the Polynesian tattoo San Diego page covers scheduling and studio details, the Polynesian tattoo guide explains motifs and placement, and the portfolio shows recent and healed work. Background on the studio and team is on the about page.
Planning a Visit from Chula Vista
- The studio is at 7912 Lester Ave, Lemon Grove, CA 91945, and is appointment-only — there are no walk-ins, so confirm dates before arranging travel.
- There is no consultation fee. Consultation and on-body freehand design are part of the tattoo process — there is no separate in-studio design fee. Remote design (for clients tattooed elsewhere) is a separate paid service.
- A non-refundable deposit equal to one hour of your artist's hourly rate is required to hold your appointment, and is applied toward your session total.
- Design happens on the body. Allow time for the consultation and freehand design session as well as the tattoo session itself — for larger work these are usually separate visits.
- Sleeves, chest panels, leg and back compositions are built over multiple sessions. If you are travelling in, ask about session length and spacing when you book so the trips can be planned in advance.
- Before you travel, review healed and recent work and the artists to decide who and what you are booking for.
Visiting the Studio — FAQ
Other Areas We Serve
Nearby areas with their own project notes and travel details: