Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Brenna DeBartolo. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Brenna, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?

When I think about the legacy I want to build, I envision something far beyond my own story—it’s about leaving behind a path that others, especially within the Deaf community, can walk confidently. I want people to remember me not only as a tattoo artist who created beautiful, meaningful designs but also as someone who broke barriers, challenged norms, and redefined what it means to be a Deaf woman in both the tattoo and entrepreneur industries.

I hope people say that I lived authentically and fearlessly, that I didn’t just follow the rules but created new ones. My journey has always been about pioneering—whether it’s founding Forest Souls Tattoo, being the first Deaf woman to own a private studio, or providing a sacred, inclusive space where stories come to life through ink. I believe my role as a rebel has been to push boundaries and create opportunities for others to thrive.

I believe in the depth beyond the illustration of money, by connecting and feeling beyond the third dimension of this planet, while thriving in the business fearlessly and serving the community at the same time.

Ultimately, I want to be remembered for my commitment to empowering people—helping to inspire others to find their fire, reconnect with their roots, and honor their narratives through art. Whether it’s through my work as an international tattoo artist, my passion for environmental conservation, or my efforts to foster inclusivity and accessibility, I hope my legacy reflects a deep respect for the earth, for others, and for the stories that shape us on a soulful level.

More than anything, I hope I’ll be remembered for creating a ripple effect—one that inspires future rebels and pioneers to push past their fears, to dream boldly, and to create unapologetically. My legacy is to be fearless in order to evolve, to ignite a passion in others to embrace their true selves and navigate their journeys with courage. It’s about breaking free from limitations and crafting a narrative that honors our roots while forging new paths.

Through this, I aim to cultivate a space where empowerment and creativity flourish, reminding everyone that we are designed to design our own destiny. By sharing our stories, we can inspire others to embrace their journeys and leave their mark on the world and afterlife, one soul at a time.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

As an artist my entire life, I felt an undeniable call to create from the moment I first stepped into a tattoo shop at 15, captivated by the artistry of ink on skin. That spark ignited within me a fierce determination to carve my own path as a tattoo artist. But as a Deaf woman in a male-dominated industry, the journey ahead was fraught with challenges.

Observing the traditional attitudes in the shop, I quickly recognized their work ethic didn’t align with my vision of artistry. I chose to pursue my dreams on my own terms, deferring my tattoo aspirations to focus on an arts degree at university. Over the years, I hustled through various industries and ventured into entrepreneurship, founding several businesses while honing my artistic skills in modeling, photography, fine arts, social media marketing, graphic design, sales, and acting. I built businesses, developed skills, and navigated the corporate world, only to find it left me craving something real, something raw. I yearned to connect with people on a deeper level, beyond mere appearances and transactions. I wanted to create art that truly mattered.

In my pursuit of an apprenticeship, I faced a stark reality. Many shop owners viewed me as a sex object rather than an artist, eager to exploit my talent while dismissing my integrity. They underestimated my potential and vision, failing to see a Deaf woman commanding respect and delivering exceptional work. But I refused to compromise my soul; I was determined to shatter expectations.

After years of searching, I found a few shops that aligned with my values, but even there, I quickly recognized their mindsets didn’t resonate with my philosophy. This led me to the bold decision to open my own tattoo studio. I established Forest Souls Tattoo not just as a shop, but as a sanctuary—one that honors professionalism, cleanliness, and safety, while creating a space where stories, art, and energy come together. Relocating my tattoo studio for the third time from Auburn, Oceanside, to La Jolla, CA, due to rapid growth has been quite the adventure. With demand for my services soaring, finding a larger space near the San Diego International Airport, including the Route 30 bus stop, was essential for accommodating my expanding clientele. Settling in La Jolla has proven to be immensely beneficial, making it an ideal location for my thriving business.

I am proud to be the first Deaf female tattoo artist to own a private studio in La Jolla, San Diego, and in America. What sets Forest Souls Tattoo apart is my unwavering commitment to providing not just tattoos, but transformative experiences that delve deep into the stories and souls of my clients. I create a sacred and impeccably clean space where individuals can express their true selves through body art, embracing the essence of Deaf culture with custom, innovative tattoo designs in sign language that uniquely represent each client’s narrative and personality.

A key distinction of Forest Souls is the full communication access in American Sign Language (ASL). As a Deaf artist, I understand the significance of a space where the Deaf community can express themselves without barriers. Clients who use ASL can communicate freely, sharing their visions without the challenges often encountered in traditional tattoo environments. For hearing clients, the studio offers a serene, meditative atmosphere where silence enhances the creative process, allowing everyone to connect deeply with their thoughts and the meaning behind their tattoos.

Nature has always been a massive part of my journey, symbolizing growth, resilience, and deep-rooted connection. My brand is deeply rooted in environmental sustainability. Every tattoo at Forest Souls represents more than just art—it’s part of a broader mission to give back to the planet. For each tattoo I create, a tree is planted, reflecting my commitment to environmental conservation. Partnering with forestry organizations ensures that my work leaves a positive, lasting impact, not only on my clients but on the world itself.

At Forest Souls Tattoo, the use of vegan ink further reflects my ethical approach to tattooing. I am committed to using cruelty-free products that align with my clients’ values, ensuring a thoughtful and conscientious tattooing experience from start to finish.

The rebel spirit in me wanted to create a space that was accessible and inclusive, especially for the Deaf community, often overlooked in the tattoo world. In my studio, clients can communicate freely in sign language without fear of being misunderstood. I’m not just a tattoo artist—I’m a bridge between worlds and cultures, helping people express their personal stories through art.

The logo of Forest Souls Tattoo reflects my personal journey and growth. It began as a representation of my soul’s identity, crafted with my own hands. As my journey progressed, it expanded into my photography business and later transformed into a socially conscious apparel company, Forest Souls. This symbolic tree has extended its branches into Forest Souls Tattoo. The logo itself has undergone a profound transformation, evolving from three spiraled triangles to a shape reminiscent of a forest. Within this design, an endless spiral symbolizes the continuous cycle of energy, creation, and life, spanning past, present, and future. The tree symbolizes life itself, while the forest represents a portal for our souls to expand and recharge our energy. It serves as a reminder for us to stay connected to Mother Nature, as Forest Souls’ motto is create, grow, and balance. The choice of black, white, and green colors in the logo holds symbolic significance. Black and white represent the yin-yang of light and dark, symbolizing balance and harmony, while green embodies growth and renewal, reflecting the vitality of nature and our interconnectedness with the Earth.

In addition to my work at Forest Souls Tattoo, I am studying to become a Reiki practitioner, with hopes of adding Reiki services to my offerings. This new path will enhance my commitment to holistic wellness and healing, allowing me to offer even deeper support to my clients on their journeys of self-discovery.

I’m also revamping my original clothing line, Forest Souls, from 2016, bringing modern designs that reflect my evolving brand while continuing to honor inclusivity and sustainability.

In a world that often seeks to divide, I believe in the power of art to unite. Forest Souls Tattoo is not just about beautiful ink; it’s about fostering connection, understanding, and healing. Through my work, I inspire others to embrace their unique stories, honoring their roots while forging new paths. Each tattoo serves as a reminder that our experiences shape us, and together we can create a tapestry of shared narratives that celebrates diversity and inclusivity.

From being redirected toward something greater to building a legacy, I am proof that if the world doesn’t make space for you, you create your own. This is just the beginning of what Forest Souls Tattoo stands for: rebellion, connection, and transformation. I’m here to claim my space in an industry that wasn’t built for me, and I invite others to join me on this wild journey of self-expression and authenticity.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

A Story of Resilience: Navigating Challenges in Pursuit of Passion

One of the most defining moments of my journey came during my quest to find the right environment to grow as a tattoo artist. After my initial introduction to tattooing at 15, I was eager to learn and immerse myself in the craft. However, the traditional tattoo industry posed significant challenges, especially as a Deaf artist seeking a space that respected my vision and values.

Throughout my search for apprenticeship opportunities, I encountered many obstacles. The pressure I faced from various shop owners was intense and often unprofessional, with expectations that didn’t align with my principles. I refused to be forced into doing things to my body for others or to conform to an industry that didn’t respect my boundaries. Despite feeling disheartened at times, I remained committed to my dream, understanding that my journey was uniquely mine.

I persevered through the frustrations of navigating communication barriers and the stigma often associated with the tattoo industry. Each rejection became a lesson, reinforcing my resolve to create a studio that was not just a business, but a sanctuary for authentic expression. I spent years honing my artistic skills and exploring various avenues in graphic design, fine arts, photography, and entrepreneurship, never losing sight of my ultimate goal.

Finally, I found a few shops that aligned with my values, but even then, the journey was far from straightforward. I soon recognized that the owners’ philosophies didn’t resonate with my own. This recognition propelled me to take the bold step of opening my own studio, Forest Souls Tattoo.

This decision was not just about creating a space for tattooing; it was about crafting an environment where individuals could express themselves freely and deeply connect with the art they wear. I focused on professionalism, cleanliness, and inclusivity, aiming to serve not just my clients but also the Deaf community in a way that felt authentic and empowering.

The resilience I demonstrated in those challenging years became the foundation for my success. Each setback taught me the importance of adaptability and belief in my vision. Now, as I look back, I see those struggles as pivotal moments that shaped me into the artist and entrepreneur I am today.

My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance. It reminds me that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back; it’s about pushing forward, learning from experiences, and staying true to one’s vision, even when the path is fraught with challenges.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

What sets Forest Souls Tattoo apart is my unwavering commitment to providing not just tattoos, but transformative experiences that delve deep into the stories and souls of my clients. I believe in creating a sacred and impeccably clean space where individuals can express their true selves through body art. As a Deaf artist, I embrace the essence of Deaf culture by offering custom, innovative tattoo designs in sign language that uniquely represent each client’s narrative and personality.

My reputation in the tattoo industry/Deaf community is built upon this dedication to inclusivity and authenticity. Clients are drawn to the full communication access in American Sign Language (ASL) that my studio provides, allowing them to share their visions without barriers. This focus on accessibility ensures that the Deaf community can experience the art of tattooing in a welcoming and understanding environment.

Furthermore, my commitment to environmental sustainability resonates with clients who share similar values. By planting a tree for every tattoo created, I emphasize the importance of giving back to our planet, intertwining the art of tattooing with environmental stewardship.

In essence, Forest Souls Tattoo offers a distinctive blend of personal expression, cultural inclusivity, and environmental responsibility, setting it apart in the tattoo industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.forestsoulstattoo.com
• Instagram: @forestsoulstattoo
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forestsoulstattoo/
• Youtube: https://www.yelp.com/biz/forest-souls-tattoo-san-diego
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/forest-souls-tattoo-san-diego

Image Credits

Photo Credits: Brenna DeBartolo and John O’Loughlin