Tattooing with a Green Thumb: How Debbi Snax Is Bringing Sustainability to the Body Art World

Debbi Snax is more than an Atlanta-based tattoo artist, she’s a visionary shaping the future of body art with purpose and power. Rooted in the culture of the South, Debbi has spent over a decade carving out space for Black expression in tattooing, murals, and public art. Now, she’s turning her creative influence toward climate justice.

Debbi’s work celebrates heritage while pushing the boundaries of what art can do for community. Whether collaborating with brands like Nike or beautifying neighborhoods with bold murals, her artistic journey has always centered visibility and impact. In her latest chapter, that impact now includes the planet.

Fellowship Experience

As a fellow with Girl Plus Environment, Debbi began exploring how her work as a tattoo artist intersects with environmental justice. What does it mean to be eco-conscious in an industry reliant on plastic, ink, and disposables? How can tattoo artists reduce their footprint while still creating powerful, lasting art?

Debbi’s fellowship journey involved deep research into sustainable tattoo practices, connecting with brands creating biodegradable and compostable tattooing materials. Through this process, she realized the role she could play in educating other artists and shifting the culture of tattooing in Atlanta toward greener standards.

Current Work & Post Fellowship

After completing the fellowship, Debbi took her learnings directly to the people. On Earth Day, she hosted “Inked and Earthy,” an innovative community mixer. The event brought Atlanta tattoo artists together to learn about eco-conscious tattooing, featuring free sample supplies from sustainable brands like @goodjudy.ca, @truetattoosupply, and @greenhousetattoosupplies.

“Inked and Earthy” wasn’t just an event—it was a call to action. Debbi used the space to connect, educate, and empower her peers, offering resources and support for anyone curious about making more sustainable choices in their craft.

As Debbi shared in her recap:

“Thanks to GPE, we had the opportunity to educate and gift the community with free eco-friendly tattoo supplies... If you’re a tattoo artist in Atlanta and curious about eco-conscious supplies, DM me! I’d lovvvve to share these with y’all!”

This is just the beginning. Debbi is already dreaming up more ways to weave sustainability into her studio practice, workshops, and public art projects. For her, climate justice isn’t a separate issue—it’s deeply connected to how we care for our bodies, our communities, and the spaces we leave behind.

Call to Action / Support

To stay connected with Debbi Snax, learn about her eco-conscious art journey, or collaborate on sustainable tattooing, follow her online and reach out:

Instagram:@debbisnax Website:debbisnax.com

Looking for eco-friendly tattoo supplies or want to host your own “Inked and Earthy” event? DM Debbi for more info and samples.