alana perez (THEy/THEM)
I'm a self-taught artist from California who joined Aion Tattoo in 2022. Art has always been my creative outlet, and tattooing combines expression, challenge, and new techniques. At age eight, I told my camp counselor I wanted to be a tattoo artist, as I loved drawing on myself and others.
I moved to Columbus in 2018 after graduating with a Political Science degree from Denison University and working in the nonprofit sector. In 2020, I began my apprenticeship at Aion Tattoo under Iggy Sweeney. During the lockdown, I focused on building my art foundation, studying tattoo history and safety protocols, and creating a portfolio. After rejoining Aion in 2022, I continued to develop my skills by shadowing artists, designing flash, and learning how the shop operates. Tattoo design is a blend of personal expression and collaboration, and as a queer artist, I aim to create a space of inclusivity and acceptance for all.