Crafting Liberation: When Art Becomes Activism
Art has always been a tool for revolution, but for me, it’s also a love letter—to the queer and trans community, to those who feel unseen, and to the power of joyful resistance.
The Crafty Queer was born out of frustration and a deep desire for representation. I struggled to find greeting cards that celebrated queer, trans, and recovery milestones—things like name changes and sobriety anniversaries—so I started making my own and sharing them with friends. What began as a small creative project quickly became something bigger. I realized my art wasn’t just about creating beautiful things; it was about holding space for systematically excluded communities. When the world feels especially heavy for queer and trans people (as it so often does), I pour my energy into making art and advocacy guides. It’s my way of pushing back, of creating something meaningful, and of reminding myself—and others—that we are not alone and we are not powerless.
Creating Space for Every Body in Art
One of my favorite pieces I’ve ever created is a body study series where diverse bodies bloom into flower-filled torsos. Fat, thin, adorned with top surgery scars, stretch marks, lady dicks, keloid scars—bodies so often erased in mainstream art. Seeing yourself reflected in art can be incredibly affirming, and it means the world that this series has resonated with so many. You can check it out here and here!
At its core, my work is an act of resistance. In a world that tries to erase, police, and reshape queer and trans bodies, I create art that affirms, empowers, and refuses to conform. Every tattoo, piece of jewelry, and vibrant illustration is a declaration that we exist as we are—valid, powerful, and beautiful. Visibility is radical, joy is defiant, and creativity is a tool for change. The world can be heavy, but that’s exactly why I create to carve out space for queer joy, resilience, and liberation.
Ink as Rebellion: Reclaiming Our Bodies
One of my greatest joys is giving people their first tattoos. The tattoo industry can be intimidating, and let’s be honest—sometimes downright toxic. But I believe getting tattooed should be an empowering experience, not a stressful one. I take my time, make sure my clients feel at ease, and emphasize bodily autonomy at every step.
It’s not just about the ink—it’s about reclaiming your body on your terms. In a world that constantly polices and erases queer and trans bodies, tattoos become a radical act of self-determination. They challenge the idea that our bodies must conform to anyone else’s standards. Whether it’s affirming gender, marking a milestone, or just adorning yourself in something that feels right, each tattoo is a declaration: I am here. I belong. I define myself.
Each tattoo I give is a tiny act of resistance, a way of saying: You deserve to take up space exactly as you are.
The Colors of Community: Why Visibility Matters
If you’ve seen my work, you know I looove a rainbow! I incorporate bright colors and queer symbolism into almost everything I make. My favorite is the Philly Pride Flag, which includes black and brown stripes to honor Black and Brown LGBTQ+ individuals. Visibility matters, and when I create art, I want it to represent the whole community, not just the most mainstream version of white able-bodied queerness.
Art is how I build community. It’s how I connect with people, how I celebrate our collective joy, and how I push back against the forces that try to erase us. Whether it’s through social media, parallel play, or community events, I see every day how art brings us together.
Creating Through the Chaos
Activism can be exhausting, but art keeps me going. When the bad news rolls in, I throw myself into creating—whether that’s a new design, a tattoo, or a resource to help people advocate for themselves and others. If my work can make even one person feel less hopeless or alone, then I know I’m doing something right.
The Crafty Queer is more than a business to me—it’s a celebration of creativity, resilience, and community. It’s my way of pushing back against the status quo and creating space for radical queer joy. And I’m so grateful to create, share, and celebrate this joyful resistance.
Learn more about my tattoo services and artivism.