The East

Love recommending this place for people who are looking for a first tattoo. I was so indecisive with what I wanted my first tattoo to be for many years. Until I met Gabo at an art event, and it's been smooth sailing since. From helping me design my first tattoo, to random ideas, and countless new ideas. Even what ideas wouldnt work well or tweaking small things,Having an easy to work with artist really made me more open to new and more ideas on pieces. Sessions are extremely welcoming and fun, never a dull moment. And I cant say enough about how good Gabo is with color. Many ideas I had were only black and Grey, but seeing such amazing work pop with color I've committed to more and more color. Can't wait to get more work done from Gabo.

Allyn Grima is the GOAT. I am so happy with how this came out. I asked for a custom adaptation of the Mouth of Mordremoth from Guild Wars 2, and Allyn understood the assignment. He really crushed it with the design, and the flow of the tattoo on my arm. Great conversation (I've spent 15+ hours with the guy so far!), great hospitality, great vibes, and such a down-to-earth dude. I had been getting patchwork from different artists on my arm, but I am so impressed with Allyn's work that I've decided that I'm going to have him finish up the rest of my arm sleeve. 10/10 would recommend. You can find him at @portrayingskin on Instagram.

It was a lovely experience! I’ve been wanting to meet Kuu and their partner for a long while and I’m glad I got to and get my first tattoo, with my wife, at the same time. It hurt like fire but, the conversation and atmosphere was amazing! I’d love to go back. After being a long time supporter of them it’s awesome to have a custom piece done for us by them! The first pictures are right after the tattoo, the peeling and the most recent picture is five weeks healed!

In Oct 2025, I was spammed with all the traveling artists coming to the Richmond, VA AnimeInk Tattoo event. Tara (@tarabletattoos) being one of them! She had a stunning set of tattoos on her IG and I reach out to her with my Dr Mario idea. Tattoo artist never cease to amaze me with their creativity, talent, and design. 9+ hours later, she created a perfectly blended new school(ish), pixel, and glitter tattoo. I get a lot of compliments on this piece. Tara, you’re so hella talented. You forever have love here in RVA! Hoping to get down to FL one of these days. HUGS!

I have been coming to see Kuu at the East for years. Their expertise is unmatched. Honestly never went to the same artist twice until Kuu. I trust their artist instincts. Their use of color is phenomenal. Truly a great person to be around (which is important when sitting in a tattoo chair let's be real!) The tattoos in the photos are 1-3 years healed and the color is amazing! Im coming back in two weeks and cannot wait for the next addition.