Island TAT: Where You Can Wear Your Story

It is possible that there is a creative chakra location right here in Lemon Grove.

Are you familiar with the concept of the seven mystical places around the world that supposedly emanate some sort of creative energy source? There is one at Wawel Castle in Krakow, Poland, which I have visited. Unfortunately, while standing there, the only creative thought I had was that a local beer would taste really good.

Here are the fascinating facts concerning a small cluster of buildings behind the post office on Lester Avenue in the Grove. It was 41 years ago when the shop started crafting guitars at this spot. Over the years, the space morphed into world-famous Taylor Guitars, and then Deerling Banjos. The creative people working there were involved in starting four other high-end guitar companies, a renowned ukulele builder, and another banjo manufacturer. Who knew?

Today, the location houses another creative force. features exotic Polynesian artwork for bodies and clothes. This is a rising star.

Island TAT was founded by Joshawa Elsas, a tattoo artist specializing in Polynesian tribal design. Elsas has been tattooing for 10 years, and mixes traditional Pacific Island design with influences inspired by his upbringing in Hawaii. As Elsas explains on his website, “Every tattoo is unique to each individual and I will create a story for your tattoo so that you are 'wearing' your own story. I combine traditional motifs, symbols and style along with your ideal tattoo idea to create the perfect tattoo for you.”

I thought my scheduled meeting would be with artist and owner Elsas. He had a tattoo appointment come up, so instead I talked with his charming sister, Gen Elsas. At the $175 hourly rate that her brother charges for tattooing, I also would have passed, too—though I'm a pretty good time.

You have to love the synergy at Island TAT. In addition to Pacific Island-inspired body art, they have accessories and clothing to compliment. The shop offers a beautiful line of Polynesian-themed clothing featuring T-shirts, hoodies, shorts, hats, custom tennis shoes, and even a surfing wetsuit top, all with cool island design. You can also find jewelry, sunglasses, or a unique cover for your iPhone.

Island TAT is located at 7912 Lester Avenue, Suite A and B, between Lemon Grove Avenue and Grove Street. The clothing shop is open Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., and Saturday–Sunday, 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Tattoos are by appointment only. Credit cards are not accepted, so make sure you stop by an ATM first. They have an extensive website where you can check out their clothes. You can call them at (619) 469-1583.

Elsas kind of shot down my mystical chakra idea when she told me they were just driving by the building on Lester Street and saw the for rent sign. But you have to ask yourself: do artists seek this place out, or does this place seek out the artist? There is something going on.