tika
JAPANESE • ILLUSTRATIVE • BLACKWORK
Honestly, a bit of everything.
I’m into Pokémon, cars, alternative fashion and Japanese culture,
so those influences naturally find their way into my work. Even when I’m not drawing those things directly, they definitely shape the darker style I gravitate towards.
WHAT’S USUALLY PLAYING IN YOUR HEADPHONES?
If I’m working, the music depends on who’s around me because I want everyone to enjoy it. But if I’m by myself, it could jump from Daft Punk to Title Fight to Kylie Minogue. I’m all over the place.
FAVOURITE MELBOURNE SPOT?
Probably one specific bench at Green Point in Brighton.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHEN YOU’RE NOT TATTOOING?
Usually tagging along on the craziest side quests with friends, ticking another food spot off my list, or heading out on day adventures.
WHAT’S SOMETHING PEOPLE PROBABLY WOULDN’T EXPECT ABOUT YOU?
A lot of people don't expect me to be into cars. There have been plenty of times where people genuinely don't believe me.
WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES ZANDAKA DIFFERENT?
Zandaka isn’t just a tattoo shop.
The work put into the space makes it feel like somewhere people genuinely want to hang out and have a laugh, not just get tattooed and leave. We look after each other here.
WHAT DOES “BUILT FOR THE SCENE” MEAN TO YOU?
To me, "Built for the Scene" means more than just running a tattoo shop.
It’s about bringing together the different parts of Melbourne culture that inspire us
and creating a hub where people can connect, explore and be part of something bigger. That’s what makes Zandaka different.
QUICK FIRE
Favourite album? Little Simz – Sometimes I Might Be Introvert
Favourite brand? Northface
Go-to snack during tattoo sessions? A full sugar Coke and a White Kinder Bueno.
Dream collab? Dr. Martens. I’ve gravitated towards alternative fashion for as long as I can remember, and I’ve spent years breaking in the 10+ pairs I own. They’re a statement shoe and the perfect blank canvas for artwork.
Current obsession? Jamiroquai.
One word to describe Melbourne? Breathing.
