Local StoriesJune 25, 2026

Life & Work with Heaven Saunders of Atlanta

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Heaven Saunders.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started tattooing at the age of 14. At that age I was in school, to keep busy, me and my brother met a local tattoo artist by the name of Red, cool guy very urban and wild but down to earth. We traveled with him around the city and learned the bases of the business, from there he showed us how to use a tattoo machine and etc. I was on and off practicing my craft for years. I found myself not happy working for a corporate job and decided to quit and chase my dream of being an independent tattoo artist.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It was far from an easy journey, I struggled with building clientele. I also dealt with lack of money so I ended up having to find work and hustle as much as possible in my free time not tattooing. At times i started to give up but I just couldn’t stop no matter what. I am a artist so I would eventually still end up tattooing here and there.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a tattoo artist from Saginaw, MI. Based in Atlanta and formerly a cast member of Black Ink Crew Chicago season 6 & 7. I specialize in lettering, color work and traditional tattoos. I’m know for my bright energy and the fact that I’m apart of the LGBT community so I’ve created a big name for myself in Atlanta.

I’m most proud of my accomplishments and making to reality tv off of my work ethic.

I’m different from other because i dominate in my art and I’m just one of a kind

What makes you happy?
My family and clients make me happy. They uplift me and motivate me to continue to spread art and love

Contact Info:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theheavenway__
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18c5vp4eGv/

Tattooed arm resting on a gray cushion, with a colorful tattoo of a woman's face and red accents.

Tattooed hand with fingers spread, resting on a plastic-covered surface, wearing a red and white patterned sleeve.

Tattoo of a skull surrounded by roses on person's arm, with detailed shading and line work.

Person lying on side with tattoos on leg, wearing black sock, with a gloved hand holding a tool near the leg, on a wooden floor.

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