Harajuku Tattoo

On Atlantic Boulevard in a small studio with a pink door is one of the most interesting tattoo artists I’ve met. Arcissa Jackson is a local tattoo artist with six years of experience. If you’re looking for colorful, unique pieces, she’s the one to see.

Jackson became a tattoo artist eight years ago and came up with the idea of Harajuku Tattoo to incorporate her love for kawaii, anime, gemstones and astrology in her work. She prides herself on offering a creative and welcoming space to all and encourages everyone to express themselves to the fullest.

Born in Japan, Jackson moved to America where she grew up to love all kinds of art. It wasn’t until she happened upon a job in a tattoo shop, as she began college, that she became interested in tattoo work. “I was really into graffiti at the time and one of the artists had taken an interest in me because he was also starting to get into graffiti…we traded and he taught me how to tattoo,” said Jackson. Her skills in tattooing continued to grow until Harajuku was born.

Jackson uses her position as an artist with her own shop to mentor others and prove to everyone if they want it enough, they can do it. The studio’s welcoming environment is expressed through bright colors, walls covered in art and the welcoming face of the artist. Jackson noted her “frilly and pink” style has earned her respect in the community. I went along for the ride and got some tattoos done by Jackson so I could get the full experience.

At our consultation, we spoke about astrology and how she incorporates it into her work. One of the first questions she asked was what my signs were. We spoke animatedly about me being a Pisces and what it really meant. We discussed what I was interested in, and after looking into her flash tattoos, we decided the colors and designs I wanted. Throughout the entire process, I felt seen and heard. It was a great first impression.

When I came back, I walked into the bright studio and felt ready for another tattoo. Before getting to work, Jackson made sure I was comfortable and knew exactly what I wanted. It was a great experience, and I learned so much about my artist.

Jackson sometimes likes to take her business mobile and show up at various conventions and guest spots in other tattoo shops. She enjoys learning new techniques from other tattoo artists, as she expresses how “innovative” they are. “I just love seeing how everybody’s methods to their madness is, and I get to take that back to my clients here in Jacksonville and offer them new styles. It’s a gathering of knowledge,” she expressed.

Jackson hopes to spread her knowledge and guide others who are interested in the tattoo industry. She wants to work with other artists to create unique things. It is definite that she is creative and motivated enough to make it happen. Speaking as someone who has gotten work done by her, I definitely recommend her, not only for a new and unique take on tattoos, but also for a memorable experience.