About

Mel has been in the tattoo industry for seven years and has experience working in several studios across Dunedin, including previous co -ownership of Flux tattoo.

Opening her own studio with a holistic and integrative approach to tattooing, sustainability and healing is a dream come true.

Mel works in a diverse range of styles but is well known for her smokey surrealism, black and grey, portraits, and Neotraditional/ Art Nouveau work.

Other styles include blackwork, fine line, colour realism and illustrative.

Favourite subject matter includes portraits, pets, native flora and fauna and anything that blends well with the smokey style she is known for. 

 Mel would describe herself as having equal parts interest in the sciences and material world, and the metaphysical subjects of energy and healing - acknowledging the importance of emotional/physical/spiritual well-being and how interconnected these aspects of ourselves are to having a balanced human experience.

When not tattooing or being Mum to her two children, Mel’s interests include spending time in nature - specifically the ocean where she lives and the native bush around Ōtepoti, tarot, gemstones, science, energy healing, and creating art. Camping, dirt bikes and going down various research rabbit holes are also a strong feature.

FAQs

  • There are several ways you can book a consultation - head to the Contact page on this website and fill out the form, send us an email to temperance.ttt@gmail.com.

    Alternatively you can send a message via Instagram to @temperance.ttt or @_mel_tattoos

  • Yes, the consultation is free however all tattoo appointments will require a deposit to confirm your booking. This will be confirmed at your consultation and there is no pressure to book.

  • Yes! Temperance is primarily a custom tattoo studio with a. focus on providing a unique experience and tattoo for the individual. Any flash posted is also one off unless otherwise stated.

  • In the days or week leading up to your appointment its a good idea to moisturise the area to be tattooed daily, and drink lots of fluids. The more hydrated your body and skin are the easier it is to tattoo you.
    The evening before keep alcohol to a minimum, and try to get a good sleep .

    On the day of the appointment eating a decent breakfast is key, and bring along some snacks/ electrolytes to assist your body’s blood glucose levels. Low blood glucose or electrolyte levels are one of the main reasons your body will struggle during a tattoo - our bodies need stable levels in order to provide the endorphins and pain relief we need to get through the session.

    • Keep it clean! If you have been given second skin you can leave the tattoo for up to 48hrs before taking the film off. Some plasma/fluid collecting under the patch is normal and a part of your bodies healing process.

    • If you have a reaction to the second skin, take it off as soon as possible - if you are unsure contact the artist directly for advice.

    • Use antibacterial soap to cleanse the area once any coverings have been removed. It is best to air dry the tattoo to avoid wiping any bacteria or contaminants into the fresh skin.

    • Use aftercare sparingly, 1-2 x a day. Less is more. Avoid general moisturisers or products containing kawakawa for the first week.