Healing Through Restorative Tattoo Art

Transformation Ink

Transformation Ink is a community-supported initiative dedicated to healing through art. Charitable contributions allow survivors of human sex trafficking to take a deeply personal step in reclaiming their bodies and their stories through restorative tattoo work.

Healing after exploitation is not linear. When a survivor has reached a stable point in their recovery, they may be referred to Transformation Ink and Suzen Tattoozen to begin the process of covering trafficking-related tattoos—often referred to as “brands.” This work is not cosmetic. It is intentional, symbolic, and deeply personal.

Through custom restorative tattooing, inhumane markings are transformed into art—helping restore dignity, autonomy, and peace. Empowered women empowering other women is at the heart of this work. Suzen’s role is simple but meaningful: to contribute her art to moments of personal victory.

Transformation Ink Grant

Grant request lines are open year-round

The Transformation Ink Grant provides restorative tattoo services to qualified individuals seeking to cover sex trafficking-related tattoos as part of their ongoing recovery.

Support Transformation Ink

If you would like to support this work, donations of any amount are sincerely appreciated. Every dollar directly assists a survivor receiving restorative tattoo care.

Donate via PayPal:
[email protected]

Thank you for supporting healing, dignity, and transformation.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Resident of Lane County, Oregon
  • Actively engaged in recovery for 12 months or longer
  • Abstinent from sex work for 12 months or longer
  • Have a sex trafficking–related tattoo (“brand”) from previous exploitation
  • Willing to volunteer with Transformation Ink and serve as a positive mentor

Application Requirements

To apply, applicants must submit the following:

  1. Completed application form
  2. Letter of recommendation
    1. From a counselor, mentor, case worker, or similar professional
  3. Personal essay
    1. Maximum 1,000 words
    2. Typed and double-spaced
    3. Must address:
      1. How a restorative tattoo would positively impact your life
      2. How you envision your life three years from now
    4. Contact information
      1. Applicant’s contact details
      2. Two references

Submission Instructions

Applications are accepted throughout the year.

All materials must be emailed to:

Email: [email protected]
Subject Line: TRANSFORMATION INK APPLICATION

Important: Any deviation from the subject line or submission instructions may result in the application being missed or filtered as spam.