Courtney Caruso

Rooted in my love for trad tattooing & the rich cultural legacy it entails, my latest ink is a tribute to timeless artistry. It was brought to life by a tattooer I admire from Hawaii @mr_wrath. I love the way he is able to transform a timeless piece that has been done 1000+times into something unique. Also inspired by my best friend Matt, whose journey as an apprentice & passion for the craft pushes me creatively daily. This tattoo is more than ink- its connection, heritage,&heart

If my ink could speak, it would... Roar with the spirit of tradition-honoring centuries of Asian & Amer. artistry, power, & protection. Whisper stories inked through time-born from bold lines, friendship, reverence, love. Speak to the hands that shaped it & the passion that lives beneath the skin. It would say it’s a piece of art made with love for the craft, & a tribute to those who came before. It would say thank you for keeping the roots of tattooing alive

With $25K, I’d breathe life into dreams & give back to those who raised me. First I would help my grandparents live more comfortably with a few minor modifications to their situation. I would be able to chip away at student loans that have weighed me down. & potentially take the first steps toward creating my own business, investing in my craft. & Yes, of course, honor my journey with new ink- markers of my growth, passions, resilience, and the future I’m creating.