Charlie Vieregge, the founder of Tattoo Motel in Athens, has cultivated a unique space for queer tattoo artists and clients. What started as a personal journey into tattooing has evolved into a sanctuary where respect, care, and inclusivity are paramount.
In 2021, Vieregge opened Tattoo Motel, initially named Charlie V. Tattoo, after years of adversity, including being homeless and working various jobs. After moving to Athens, Vieregge recognized a need for a queer-friendly tattoo space. Their previous experiences as an apprentice in other shops made them realize that many places lacked the safe and inclusive environment they were looking for. Hence, Tattoo Motel was born.
The shop’s structure is based on mutual respect, collaboration, and ethical standards. Vieregge made it a point to foster a horizontal power structure where artists work together as equals. Tattoo Motel’s policies include trauma-informed care, ensuring clients’ autonomy and comfort, as well as promoting queer representation by exclusively hiring queer artists. The focus is not to exclude non-queer individuals, but to create a safe haven for the queer community to feel comfortable and supported.
Felicity Gunn, a resident artist who joined Tattoo Motel last year, shares similar values and a commitment to fostering an affirming space. She ensures clients are treated with care by explaining the tattoo process thoroughly, checking in about comfort, and being flexible with design changes. Gunn also emphasizes body positivity and inclusivity, striving to work with all body types and skin colors, unlike some tattoo shops where clients have reported being rejected based on their appearance.
For Vieregge and Gunn, tattoos are more than just body art. They are a way for individuals to express their identity, bodily autonomy, and confidence. Vieregge sees tattooing as a form of resistance and self-care, particularly for queer people, trans folks, and marginalized communities. The shop stands as a safe space for those who may have experienced discrimination or hate elsewhere.
In the future, Vieregge hopes to expand Tattoo Motel into a “community shared space” where artists can access education on safe tattooing practices and find housing options. They envision a network of Tattoo Motel locations across the country where artists can travel between shops while knowing they have a welcoming and safe environment to work and live.
Tattoo Motel is not just about tattoos; it’s about affirming individuals’ identities, providing a platform for artistic expression, and creating a space where people can feel seen and respected for who they are.
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