ABOUT

Nathalie AKA Nat is a tattoo artist based at Guru Tattoo, drawn to imagery that celebrates beauty, symbolism, and movement. Their favorite subjects to tattoo include lady heads, flowers and botanical elements, and repeating patterns and motifs. They are especially inspired by and enjoy working in Japanese traditional and neo-traditional styles, neo-traditional illustration, Art Nouveau, blackwork, and New School illustration.

Their creative inspiration pulls from many corners of life: animation, comic books, video games, movies, esoteric philosophies, food, fashion and design, and—always—dance. These influences shape their vibrant, animated approach to tattooing and their love for imagery that feels alive and expressive.

Nat began their journey in body modification at Apogee, a long-standing piercing studio in San Diego’s Ocean Beach, where they worked the front desk. That experience taught them the fundamentals of apprenticeship, shop care, and professionalism, while also deepening their respect for the culture and responsibility behind body modification. It was a humbling start that ultimately galvanized their passion for tattooing.

They later joined Guru Tattoo, again beginning at the front desk to fully understand how a tattoo shop operates before asking to be taken on as an apprentice. They consider Guru the ideal place to have started their tattoo journey and value how the shop celebrates individuality and each artist’s unique specialty. The environment continues to motivate their growth as a creator, surrounded by artists who inspire them to push beyond what they arrived with.

Outside of tattooing, Nat lives happily between two worlds: Diva and Grandma. One moment they’re in full face makeup, somewhere between getting ready for a cocktail party or becoming an alien,always ready to dance, anywhere. The next, they’re fully in their grandma era: crocheting, gardening, sewing, baking, reading books, cards, and clouds, and enjoying a good cup of tea.

I believe tattoos serve a dual purpose: they can be a bold declaration of personal identity and also part of a universal language that connects us through shared stories and experiences. By creating a comfortable and safe space, I help my clients celebrate significant milestones and provide a path toward personal growth through art. Let’s do something exciting together! (Or just fufill the human condition with an impulsive tattoo story!”

Deep gratitude for everyone who has believed in me, supported me, and kept faith in me along the way.

Nathalie is currently taking appointments at our Pacific Beach location. Fill out our booking link or email them directly at Nathalie@gurutattoo.com