Meet Maruhawa Gitta, a talented tattoo artist from Jakarta (Indonesia) specializing in Color Realism. Working at Happenink Tattoo, Gitta combines her love for vibrant art with a passion for storytelling through tattoos. Join us as we uncover her experience in the tattoo industry.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
My name is Maruhawa Gitta, I’m a tattoo artist from Jakarta, Indonesia. Right now I’m working at Happenink Tattoo, one of the best tattoo studio in Indonesia. I specialize in Pop Art, Painting, and Color Realism.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
I always like to doodle and look at colorful things. So one day I saw a very vibrant and very colorful tattoo on one of my friend’s arms. That’s when I wanted to know more, even decided to get myself a tattoo. And then I realize that tattooing is not just about art, but it’s a story that’s crafted for life.
At what point in your life, you became a professional tattoo artist?
It’s where I noticed that tattooing is the only thing I can do without being distracted (yes, I’m a highly easily distracted person). I decided to leave my 9-5 job as a graphic designer to focus and pursue tattooing.
Where are you based?
Jakarta, Indonesia.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Indonesia these days?
I would say that Indonesia has so many talented tattoo artists with different styles and international recognition. Society also starts to accept people with Ink. In my opinion, it’s a very exciting and motivating time for the tattoo community industry.
How would you define your current tattoo style and how did you end up focusing on it?
My current tattoo style is inspired by paintings, movies, cartoons, and textures. For me, those things are the things that we can see, feel, and touch, that’s why I wanted to translate all of those things in my style; art that you can feel.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers?
I really like exploring what’s on my client’s minds. Sometimes, they know what they want but they don’t know that there’s a better concept that will fit their ideas, skin, and placements. So I really like to give them a concept.
What is the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Trying to give people an understanding that tattoos are a journey. Nowadays, people tend to rush things off, cheaper tattoos, but sacrificing quality.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
Meeting new people and knowing that what I give them will be with them forever, whether it’s the tattoo or the memory.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
I dealism beats everything. With it, you can give people something unique, you can give people something that they will remember and tell people about either the tattoo or you.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
I would say my mentors. Ata Ink, Benk Benk, and Beii. These people gave me so many inspirations, techniques, and lessons about how to be a good tattoo artist.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
Yes, I sing a lot! Check out my profile for some song covers.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
I got sponsored by EZ Tattoo. Been using it since day-1 of my tattooing journey and I consider it one of the best tattoo equipment brands. They have very good needles and the people behind them are very kind and professional!
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
I just wanted to let you guys know that I am deeply thankful for reading my journey as a tattoo artist. Tattoo isn’t just art, but it’s a memory that will go with you forever.
Hello,
Do you have any openings for the Atlanta convention on March 14-16?
My go to artist in Jakarta!!