Founder’s Story

The idea for Arterburn Ink started in 2024, rooted in the legacy of my grandmother from Vava’u, Tonga. Her funeral ceremony in Utah, attended by hundreds, served as a powerful reminder of the strength in our community. It challenged me to find a way to honor my Tongan and Samoan heritage through service.


This search reconnected me with the art of tātatau/tatau. It was a connection that felt natural and meaningful. I established Arterburn Ink with a singular mission: to celebrate Polynesian culture and give back to the community that sustains it.

A Legacy from Vava’u

I am of Tongan and Samoan descent, with ancestral ties that run deep from Vava’u. My heritage is built upon the prominent lineages of the Schaumkel, Feletoa, and Wolfgramm families. Specifically, I carry the bloodline of Maile Feletoa ‘Alaipulotu from Neiafu.

These family names are the foundation of everything I create. Following the passing of my grandmother, I felt a calling to honor our history by bringing the artistry and symbols of our people, like the Manulua, into a premium, modern context. Connecting this to the family name Arterburn. Manulua is truly the unity of two families, one from Polynesia and one from the U.S.

Arterburn Ink is my way of ensuring our culture remains vibrant and respected on a global stage.

Who We Are

Quality is respect. Family is strength. Ink is identity.

Our brand is rooted in a profound respect for Polynesian heritage and the ancient art of tattoo.

Each piece we create is more than just clothing, it’s a statement of who we are. Our inspiration starts with tātatau traditions of Tonga, tatau of Samoa, kākau of Hawai’i, and tā moko of Aotearoa (New Zealand).

Based in the U.S., we hand-pack every order with care, honoring the values of craftsmanship, authenticity, and connection.

Our Core Pillars

  • Family – Guided by unity, respect, and connection.

  • Culture – Honoring Polynesian heritage through modern design.

  • Authenticity – Every piece tells a story with meaning and purpose.

  • Community – Building bonds that extend beyond clothing.

  • Quality – Craftsmanship and detail in every creation.

  • Commitment - Crafted to leave an impression that endures. Just like ink on skin, our commitment is permanent.