APPRENTICEship program
Elevation Project is a teaching studio that accepts and trains apprentices in a merit-based curriculum. Owner/artist Emma Grace has trained six apprentices to date, and is now mentoring a current class of three. Apprentices are hand-selected based on their portfolios, motivation and mindset, and dedication to learning the craft. Applications are accepted approximately once every two years and openings will be announced on the studio’s instagram page.
Current Apprentices
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Nalisha Estrellas - (she/they)
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
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Alexander Hayden
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
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Brian Marshall
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
About our program
Elevation Project trains classes of 2-3 apprentices at a time in a mentor-led program that generally lasts about 2 years from start to finish. Students begin with OSHA training in blood-borne pathogens and learning safe practice in the studio while observing mentors and other artists at work. Over several months, they build up technical knowledge while assisting in tattoo sessions and attending group workshops on specific topics.
Once apprentices have a firm grasp on sanitation and the basics of tattoo application, they begin practice work on synthetic “skins,” where they hone their skills and trouble-shoot difficulties.
When deemed ready, apprentices will make their first tattoo on themselves under observation from the mentor. After this they must perform a number of free tattoos on friends or family, the application and healing of which are closely monitored. They will then progress to taking paying clients, and benefit from the wider reach and endorsement of the studio, until they have built up sufficient skill and clientele to graduate the program. When space is available, graduates may continue to work at Elevation Project, or receive a recommendation at the studio of their choice.