New Zealand born-and-based tattoo artist Makkala Rose creates richly detailed botanical and animal tattoos from her own studio Love Craft Atelier.

Her work is often filled with meaning, whether through floral symbolism or creating memorial tattoos for her clients.

We stole a few moments of Makkala’s time to find out about how she became a tattoo artist, the support she’s had along the way, and what essential skills apprentices should be picking up.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I think I always had it in my heart to create. As a kid, I had this big dream of driving around the States in a bus, painting and crafting. I feel it’s safe to say I quickly realised my deepest desire was to travel and make art. I had no idea how that would actually occur, but it sure worked out - just a little differently than how I’d initially imagined!

Who helped you or inspired you the most at the beginning of your career?

I had a variety of encouraging and supportive people around at the beginning of my career, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. I really owe a lot to my first dedicated canvas, one of my best friends who offered me his legs, and my mentor Jesse who helped open my eyes to the endless possibilities in tattoo.

How do you describe your tattoo art style?

This one’s always hard to answer. My work is very similar to how I paint, however over the years I’ve focused a lot on developing my style of tattoo which has meant my painting has taken on its own form too.

Painting is where I can express my creativity through other mediums, like watercolours. It’s a great outlet for me and helps ground me too. Tattooing is where I can bring others’ visions to life in my own way, in a style that is truly who I am.

My work is illustrative, but I use plenty of photo references. The natural world is the bedrock of my style; plants, flowers, animals all feature in my craft. I’m inspired by the beauty of nature and its symbolism. I see my role as the filter, recreating these symbols that mean so much to people, with my own style of art coming through in the process. It’s inherent.

How do you design your tattoos?

I focus on getting a feel for what the client is looking for and sometimes I follow a mood, a feeling, a vision, and I’ll search for, or take photos of my own reference to create something special. It’s like creating bouquets to suit someone.

What do you think it is that makes your botanical work stand out from everyone else’s?

When I create, I’m not looking to create like anyone else. Don’t get me wrong - I see so many beautiful pieces of botanical art all over the internet that are inspiring, but really, I think it just comes down to each artist being strong and proficient in themselves and their work. This can change over time as we each grow and evolve too, but I feel like it’s a bit of a dedication to the self. You have to believe in yourself, build your craft and focus on doing what you do best.

When did you set up Love Craft Atelier and who works there with you?

Love Craft was born in 2020 after I returned from a few years overseas. The studio is based in one of the most beautiful beach communities in the North Island of New Zealand, Pāpāmoa, Bay of Plenty. It’s my own private studio with a dedicated room for guests, so we have travelling artists rotating through. I’m lucky to have the ever-helpful Vicky keeping the studio running smoothly and taking care of things. There’s also Moira, who specialises in lymphatic drainage massage and works out of the studio regularly.

Could you describe your private studio space for us?

The Atelier is filled with all things near to my heart; pieces of art I’ve collected over the years, pieces family have crafted for me, gifts from clients and friends all make this place my ‘home away from home’. The studio was set up by the many hands of my friends coming together to help me during a challenging part of my life. So, you could say it was born out of the love and support of the many good people in my life and you feel that in the space.

The most common feedback I get is how calm the space feels to those who visit. There’s as much plant life as I could fit in it too! Dried bouquets, aromatherapy, studio-oriented merchandise, vintage pot plants and hangers, vases I’ve collected, fresh flowers and crystals all form the look and feel of Love Craft.

In terms of memorial/portrait tattoos, do you prefer people or animals?

I certainly tattoo more pet portraits and prefer to lean that way, that’s where my heart is. I’m not often asked for memorials of people in terms of portraits, but more so in things that remind them of the people they love – and that, I enjoy.

How far in advance are your books usually closed?

I’ve recently reinvented my entire booking system to work via my newsletter and live calendar that gets sent out to clients whose projects I choose to take on. The calendar is currently six months ahead, however my waitlist is currently nine months. I try to limit how far in advance I book and plan out so I still have the freedom to travel.

Are there any artists you’d love to get in for a guest spot?

So many! Too many to specifically name. Everyone has something to teach you and it’s such a beautiful opportunity to learn from each other. The tattoo community in New Zealand is close knit, which is amazing. I’ve also connected with many artists around the world who I’ve enjoyed working alongside, either in-studio or doing pieces for me. I’m learning all the time and look forward to my next overseas trip that will involve tattooing and meeting more artists along the way.

Do you ever work on collaboration pieces?

Yes! I currently have a backpiece on the go in collaboration with local artist Norton Hollows.

What advice do you give to your clients about healing?

I have a specific procedure for clients to follow that’s sent out when people book. For me it’s all about safety and a quality result. I don’t tend to give general advice out as each artist has different ways they like their clients to heal best, so follow your artist’s advice in the first instance. Mine however involves Derm Shield, Hustle Bubbles and Hustle Butter.

Do you have any words of wisdom for the apprentice tattoo artists out there?

First off – before you tattoo anyone, ever, learn about how to safely handle bloodborne pathogens. There are plenty of online courses and I strongly encourage anyone considering the craft to upskill and learn as much as you can about the subject. This is so, so important, and in so many places around the world, often overlooked. Learn how to keep yourself and your clients safe. Then focus on the art. Create, create, and create some more.

Find yourself an apprenticeship in a studio and be prepared to work hard and dedicate a lot if you're going to take it seriously. I also personally found great benefit in sticking to only tattooing a handful of friends as I was first learning, and I'm forever grateful for the encouragement and support I had from day one.

Can you talk us through your workstation please?

I use a Cheyenne SOL Nova Unlimited machine, Cheyenne cartridges, Eternal Ink, Stencil Stuff and Quick Caps. I also opt for soft wipes over paper towels.

Can you tell us about the rug and murals created featuring your artwork, Home?

I loved doing these as it was such a unique opportunity to showcase my work in another way and to another audience. I was approached by a New Zealand company ‘The Inside’ in Nelson who asked me to create wallpapers for their label. This is still in the works for future projects, but we trialled my ‘Home’ painting as a wall mural and also as a fabric. I was also approached by ‘Art in Rug’, an American company doing really amazing things including creating one-off rugs for various artists around the world.

Do you have any conventions or guest spots lined up for 2024?

I’m open to all possibilities in 2024. Travel is on the cards, but you’ll have to sign up to my newsletter for the specifics! I’m a frequent guest at the Wellington Tattoo Convention and also at the New Zealand Tattoo and Art Festival in New Plymouth, however in 2024 I’m looking to make moves much further abroad.

Which of New Zealand’s flora and fauna do you love the most?

I love the less utilised flora and try to bring these in where I can. I’m fond of the Mount Cook lily, Poroporo/New Zealand clematis and also Mānuka flowers. These are endemic to New Zealand so they have a special place in my heart. They’re also exquisitely beautiful.

What do you enjoy doing outside of tattooing?

I love to paint, travel, and explore nature. When I travel you’ll usually find me around flowers, in gardens, exploring art museums, enjoying good wines and local foods. In my down time I love writing, meditation, and dancing.

What does the future hold for Makkala Rose?

Following my heart in creative pursuits and always looking to grow and evolve. I intend on travelling far and wide, creating as much as I can and eventually returning home to build something really special for myself and those who enjoy my work. I’ve got big dreams and I’m excited about the future!

Hopefully you’ve enjoyed our chat with Makkala Rose – make sure to check out her work on Facebook and Instagram, or find her at Love Craft Atelier in New Zealand!