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lar.uh

Toronto-based tattooist & illustrator — machine & handpoke

Photo of Lara Anderson, tattoo artist

Hi, hey, hello!

Thanks for stopping by. I'm Lara — a tattooist, illustrator, and friendly human based in Toronto.

I've been tattooing with a machine since 2019 after spending a year handpoking tattoos during my apprenticeship. Before finding my passion in tattooing, I studied UX/UI design, taught and performed ballet, and worked in visual merchandising and personal styling.

As a lifelong illustrator and self-taught painter with a background in dance and performance, I've been creating for as long as I can remember. Art has always been crucial to my personal growth, so it felt natural to build my career around it.

I'm currently tattooing out of Lacuna Studio in Toronto's Junction neighbourhood. I'd love to work with you — let's make something beautiful.

What I Do

Machine Tattoos

Custom and flash designs rooted in nature — plants, animals, and humans rendered in linework, shading, and blackwork. I also love puns, dark cartoon reinterpretations, and turning your own artwork into tattoos. Your idea or mine — let's collaborate.

Handpoke Tattoos

Also known as machine-free or stick-and-poke tattoos, handpoke work uses the same professional needles as machine tattooing but without electricity — setting the design into the skin point by point. It's a less invasive, traditional method that many clients find less painful with a faster healing process. Most small designs (2×2" and under) and short script pieces are great candidates for handpoke.

Flash Tattoos

Keep an eye on my Instagram for new flash designs — they get claimed fast! Flash pieces are original designs offered at a set price, first come first served. New flash drops every 1–2 weeks. DM me or email to claim yours — a deposit is required to hold a piece.

Kind Words

"Thank you 😁 it was great, we are both really happy with our tattoos 😍"

— Teagan

"Couldn't have asked for a better first tat experience ☺️"

— Lara

"Thank you so much for this one, love it!! 🖤✨"

— Sujara

"You're the best 🙏🏼"

— Aaron

"In love with my shroom dude!! Thank you for such a great experience 💕"

— Kristin

"I couldn't be happier with it 💙"

— Emma

"Look at how cute it is!!! I absolutely love it :) thank you so much 🥰"

— Jamie

"Thanks for everything Lara! You made me so comfortable and you're such a sweet soul 💗"

— Lorenzo

Loved your tattoo? Leave a review!

Your reviews help other people find me and feel confident booking. If you've had a great experience, I'd be so grateful if you'd take a moment to share it.

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Stay in the Loop

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Find Me at Lacuna Studio

Studio

Lacuna Studio

163 Sterling Rd, Toronto, ON

(Junction neighbourhood)

Hours

By appointment only

Artists typically work 11am–6pm

Lacuna is a private studio — the exact unit number will be shared when your appointment is confirmed.

Getting There

  • By Subway: Between Dundas West Station and Lansdowne Station on Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth)
  • By Streetcar: Short walk from the 505 Dundas and 506 College streetcar lines
  • By Car: Street parking available on Sterling Rd and surrounding streets

Book a Tattoo

Ready to get tattooed? Fill out the form below and I'll get back to you within a few days with next steps. You can also reach me by email or Instagram DM — whatever feels most comfortable.

Upload any reference photos, inspiration, or placement photos