Sacred was created in 1990, Underground at 365 Canal Street. originally called Canal Street Tattoo renamed, Kaleidoscope Tattoo, to reflect Anil Gupta’s wide tattoo talents.
In 1995-97 The City Council created legislation to rescind the Health Department’s prohibition of Tattooing.Clayton Patterson with his Tattoo Society.of New York together with Kaleidoscope became the center to Legalize NYC Tattooing. All the tattooists (60) in the Boros and surrounding areas participated expressing their views.
The attendees voted to appoint five who were to visit everyone to take a pulse of the views and report back to the group.Clayton (NYTS) and Wes (of Kaleidoscope & Unimax) did the leg work getting the concerns, which they did, and the findings approved by vote.
The NYC Council agreed to our changes and the Bill was signed into
law by Mayor Giuliani in 1998. The Health Department was now
required to recognize and allow Tattooing as a legitimate activity.
Tattoo was returned to the Ownership of the people.
In 2004-5 Sean Vasquez became lead Tattooist re-naming the studio
to Sacred Tattoo. Kate Hellenbrand became manager a year later.
Many famous artists enjoyed their time at Sacred.
At out present location, 264 Canal St. looking up you will see
our 2nd Floor windows overlooking Canal St, (next to McDonald’s).
As you enter Sacred, Lars Krutak’s indigenous tattooing photos remind us that tattooing is the Art of the People belonging to all people, everywhere. The Large Dragon by Chinyo recognizes Asian tattooing. Below Chinyo are Black and White sheets of original designs from Baba Austin of Vintage Tattoo, Los Angeles.
To the right of Baba are colorful designs on “envelopes of incarcerated art.” The World of DG Wilson’s Tattoo Art is on display opposite Chinyo. Next to DG, Tricia Allen presents Authentic Indigenous Polynesian Tattoo Art.
Take Elevator to 2nd Floor. 12 Noon to 7PM, Closed Tues & Weds.
All are Welcomed. Free entrance. Children welcome.

We provide the opportunity for experienced tattoo artists to call Sacred their home. Our spacious studio allows for multiple artists to work in their individual spaces at a time. We lease open booths as well as private rooms, please contact us if you are interested in joining our diverse team of creatives.