Today we’d like to introduce you to Santana Laye.
Hi Santana, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in a small town in Missouri, with a population of about 700 people, everyone knew everyone. I was the kid who only cared about art, that’s kind of how I was known. I come from a very conservative/religious background (classic preachers daughter) where what I do now is totally taboo. It’s quite funny though, because I feel like every fond memory I have, has involved art and tattooing in some way.
Shortly after I graduated high school, I moved to Kansas City. I found myself an apprenticeship when I got settled, and that didn’t go quite as planned.
But, I somehow, always wound up in a tattoo shop. From being a shop hand, a manager or even a client, I couldn’t get away from it! I felt like no matter what, I just needed to be in a tattoo shop.
About 2 years ago I restarted my tattoo journey with one of my closest friends, who acted as my mentor. (Shoutout Miss Elise!) I was licensed at the beginning of this year (2025) and I can honestly say it’s been the best year of my life.
I have been able to do things that I never thought I would do!
I was able to tattoo backstage for amazing artists like Deftones and Teddy Swims. I’ve been able to donate to local charities just by tattooing. I’m happy to be in a studio that prioritizes community and supporting the people who support you.
It’s been such an unreal experience, I’m so beyond grateful to be able to do what I do in a city like KCMO
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Tattooing is one of the most difficult things I’ve committed myself to. Being able to permanently alter someone’s body is stressful, tedious and rewarding work! Every tattoo, no matter how small or silly is such a personal sentiment, and being trusted to do something like this is such an honor.
While I love everything that tattooing has gifted me, this career is not as easy as it seems. The industry is so unregulated and has no clear direction. Tattooing is tradition passed down from mentor to mentor. If you don’t choose who to learn from wisely, it can really affect you, and your growth. When I started my journey about 10 years ago, I found myself in a studio where I wasn’t safe, and the culture of tattooing and clients weren’t respected. I wanted to align myself with tattooers who love people, who provide safe spaces for EVERYONE and love the grind of the industry; and that’s exactly what I did. It took some time, but I eventually found myself exactly where I needed to be.
Tattooing is a 24/7 job. Even when I’m not physically tattooing, I’m laying all the ground work to make sure I can always be growing. From drawing/creating everyday, to booking my clients, to making sure I am creating a space that is welcoming, safe and accessible to all, I’m exhausted, but I’ve never been happier. I’ve been very fortunate to have the clients I do, they honestly make all the hard work worth it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am an American Traditional tattooer! My clients have coined me as a “Girly Trad Tattooer” which is pretty cute.
I love to create bold, colorful, tattoos as well as the classic black and grey pieces.
I love taking old concepts from iconic tattooers before me and making them colorful, bright, bold and well.. girly!
How do you define success?
Success comes entirely from who you surround yourself with. Not money, not what you can show off, but who you know. My shop(Steel Panther Tattoo) my friends, as well as my clients are like minded people who push me to be better everyday.
Without them I wouldn’t be where I am now. My friendships have led me to do some absolutely amazing things in the short time I’ve been licensed. Success to me is community, love and support- without that, what’s the point?
Contact Info:
- Website: https://venue.ink/@santanaraetattoos
- Instagram: Santanarae_tattoos
Image Credits
Instagram: MeganKarson (tintype)
Instagram: slugmilk.jpeg (action shots)
