Keeli
Keeli is a Santa Cruz–born tattooer whose work is deeply rooted in the culture that raised him. Growing up on the East Side, surrounded by surf, skate, and punk rock, tattooing was never separate from life—it was part of the identity. From an early age, he was drawn to it, inspired by his grandfather who was covered head to toe, and by the local legends and imagery that defined Santa Cruz style.
He began tattooing in 7th grade and started professionally at 18 under the mentorship of Papa Joe at Papa Joe’s Tattoo in Pleasure Point. There, he learned the craft in its most traditional form—sweeping floors, painting flash, and earning his place. Shortly after, he moved to Hawaii at 19, where he continued tattooing before returning home to Santa Cruz to dedicate himself fully to the craft. Over the past 22 years, he has tattooed consistently, building a style that is unmistakably his own.
Keeli specializes in classic American traditional, with a deep appreciation for bold color work as well as black and grey Chicano fine line. Whether it’s a small, palm-sized piece or a full back, he approaches every tattoo with the same level of care and excitement. For him, tattooing is about storytelling—capturing moments, memories, and chapters of a person’s life in a way that lasts forever. He’s inspired by the way tattoos can reflect a lifetime, like the ones he admired growing up on surfers, skaters, and veterans alike.
What sets Keeli apart is his unmistakable Santa Cruz influence. Having grown up immersed in the local scene, even painting alongside artists like Jimbo Phillips, his work carries that raw, coastal energy—a blend of beach culture and Bay Area edge. It’s a look that’s instantly recognizable, and one he continues to honor and evolve through every piece he creates.
Known for creating a comfortable, judgment-free environment, Keeli values collaboration and trust with his clients. He makes it a point to ensure each person feels heard, respected, and excited throughout the process—going the extra mile to make every tattoo as meaningful and well-executed as possible.
Outside of tattooing, Keeli’s creativity never stops. He’s constantly drawing, painting, surfing, skating, and playing music with his band. Whether he’s at the skatepark with his kids or working on new art, everything he does is rooted in self-expression. Driven by family and legacy, he hopes to leave behind work that future generations—including his own—can look at and feel proud of.
Now tattooing at Paradise, Keeli continues to bring his experience, passion, and unmistakable style into every piece—helping keep the spirit of Santa Cruz tattooing alive, one story at a time.
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