I've been working with George aka: Drone since 2022 when he was working at someone else's studio. So when he opened Malaka Tattoo Collective, of course I followed him. The studio is impeccably clean- always new equipment and protective gear used. I can't say much about the other artists at the studio, but I've seen their portfolios and they all have unique styles. I only have used George for my own tattoos (8 large pieces and a chest cover up). I love the way he works. I give him my idea of what I want, location and general size. And he will sit with me and do the design while we make modifications together. He always makes her. I am completely satisfied before we start. Once we did a 12 hour day, and he never rushed me, himself, or seemed annoyed with the time. As long as I have ideas and space on my skin, I will keep returning here to get tattooed by George. read more

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This review is LONG overdue. I searched for a watercolor tattoo artist for a very long time, and then I found George Drone--and I'm so glad I did. I've had two pieces done by him, and both are truly impeccable works of art. I believe tattoos should be intimate, handcrafted, and deeply personal. People decorate their bodies with stories--of trauma, experience, healing, and growth. George understands that on a rare level. His work doesn't just sit on the skin; it captures character, energy, and story all at once. You can tell a lot about an artist by how they paint, and he portrayed my symbolism perfectly. George, thank you for creating such gorgeous, unique work. I'm constantly complimented by people who don't even like tattoos. Years later, the wear is beautiful and the colors remain vibrant. I'm genuinely honored to carry your rare and original artwork with me. Thank you for displaying my symbols so effortlessly and with such care. When the time comes for my next piece, you'll absolutely be hearing from me. George is truly a one-of-a-kind artist--his vision, concept, and execution are flawless. I couldn't be happier. Tattoos are forever, and I'll be wearing mine proudly--even when I'm old and wrinkled. read more

Collectively, we've been going to Drone for the past 3.5-4 years, and both my husband and I can confidently say he is our favorite tattoo artist. We've worked with him on multiple projects, and everything he's helped us create is not only beautiful, but deeply true to who we are as people. His artistic talent speaks for itself, but what really sets him apart is how collaborative and intentional he is with each piece. My husband and I have very different tattoo styles. My husband loves Drone's bold, graphic work, while I gravitate toward more feminine tattoos with lighter, thinner, flowing lines, and Drone executes both flawlessly. He understands how to adapt his artistry without losing his signature style, which is rare and incredibly impressive. On top of that, his personality makes the entire experience even better. He's super chill, refreshingly blunt in the best way, and genuinely focused on helping you get what you actually want, not just what looks good on paper. You feel heard, respected, and guided the entire process. Truly, we would wait five years to get one tattoo from Drone before waiting a week for anyone else! That's how much we trust his work. If you're considering booking with him... do it. You won't regret it! read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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If you are looking for a bad ass original tattoo done by an actual artist and not just some copy/paste stencil tracer, then book with Drone and trust the process. I was one of those guys that wanted a full sleeve for a long time but have zero artistic ability, and wasn't sure what exactly I wanted. Drone helped me figure it out and he'll help you too. He's an actual artist that is passionate a lot his work and wants you to have an original piece that you love. It's a work in progress so I will come back and post some pictures when it's done. read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Sometimes you just have to let the artist work. - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I love love love this piece. Zoe's line work is so dynamic and precise. Her artistry really flows and she worked with the shape of my body to create this one of a kind piece that made me feel like it should've always been there. The expertise, enthusiasm, and energy she brought was so palpable I almost felt like this was an EXPERIENCE rather than just a tattoo session. It was a true delight and privilege to have her work on me and bring my vision to life. The shop itself was such a wonderful vibe. recommend. read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Line work by Zoe - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Drone aka supremedrone, the owner is totally awesome. He is very straight forward and blunt, don't be afraid to ask questions or critic if it might be something you may or may not like. He is an artist. I pitched the idea for a my puppers sleeve and he did absolutely amazing. Organized Chaos. We sat together as he brainstormed on how they would come out. I absolutely love how my tattoo looked like what abstract ART should look like. Thank you Drone for my everlasting sleeve of my little ones. 10/10. Definitely coming back soon! The studio itself is amazing and to fun to look around at. Definitely check out the other tattooist who reside there! Amazing, amazing work. My tip on paid parking was is on Willoughby Ave and N Sycamore Ave. It is right across from Sightglass Coffee. The lot is open 24 hours and I think I paid like $10. read more

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I recently had my 5th appointment with Drone, and obviously I love the work so much I keep coming back. Firstly, Malaka Tattoo is one of the best tattoo shops I've been to. The atmosphere, the vibe, the cleanliness, and totality of my experiences have been top tier. I've been seeing Drone for body work since 2020, right before COVID, and when I first met him I was very hesitant to proceed because I wanted a new style moving forward with the body art. Upon our first meeting George (Drone) had me sit with him and chat for a couple hours just to get to know me and see what my likes and interests were. Although very unorthodox to me, I now feel like it was the best decision I made. I had gone in with the expectation of getting something similar to "trash polka" but at the end I received something better: Organized Chaos. We spent hours designing and formulating ideas of what I would want. Fast forward 5 years and 3 sessions later, I now have one of the most amazing back pieces I have ever seen. Drone is clean, fast, and an expert at his craft. All you have to do is look at his art, which speaks for itself. Looking forward to adding more to my back piece and hoping to have Drone cover more areas that I have left. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!! read more

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Absolutely amazing shop with talented artist. I was looking to get my first tattoo done, and Alper, one of the artist, really worked with me to ensure that the end tattoo I was aligned with my vision. I can't imagine having gone to a different spot to get tattooed. Seriously, if you are considering a tattoo, Malaka is the place to do it. read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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So glad I found this shop! Supreme Drone (George) did an AWESOME piece on my back in his organized chaos style. It was a cover up tattoo and you can't even tell it's a cover up!! He was so great to work with and was patient with me while we figured out the perfect composition, style, placement etc. He gave me so many options to choose from which was really cool. Most artists won't take that time and effort. Some tattoo shop atmospheres can be pretty intimidating but this shop is very clean, friendly, spacious and welcoming! Looking around at other artists work and they all seem top notch. While we still need to finish this back piece - I'm looking forward to going back. I'm also eyeing another artist there for another piece. 10/10 highly recommend. read more

Came here for a Friday 13 flash tattoo, and Paul did an amazing job. The tattoo I chose had really thick lines, and when we placing the stencil Paul noticed most of my tattoos were more on the dainty side. To make the tattoo match what I already have he offered to do dotwork instead of solid lines for a softer look. That was a great call, I love how it turned out! read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Finished tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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If you're looking for the most custom "just for you" piece, the coolest abstract art around, the "people stop and ask you about your work" kinda tattoo ...stop what you're doing and make an appointment with Drone. I was already thinking up my next tattoo while he was working on me. He's a beast... fast, efficient, and a dope a$$ creative. read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Custom abstract art tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I had the pleasure of working with Drone, to be transparent I'm a previous client of his from when he was in NYC. Scheduling was easy, primarily on instagram chat but they have phone numbers and emails. The studio had a great chill and relaxed atmosphere and all the staff, other artists and other clients were friendly. During the session, Drone made sure you were completely satisfied with the design and composition before starting. He also checked in on you multiple times to make sure you were ok. During my 7 hr session we took multiple breaks for the wellbeing of the client and the artist. I ubered to the studio so I cannot comment on parking, there seems to be limited metered street parking and several lots around the area however. love the stellar work Drone did on my coverup and will be back. read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Previous tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

If I could leave 10 stars I would! Leaving a yelp review has never meant more to me than this one. My 24-year-old son recently took his own life. I had gone to get a tribute tattoo for him at another shop since I was unaware of Malaka at the time. I paid $300 and got absolute trash in return. I spent the entire night crying and the next day was blessed enough to find Shay on Instagram. I reached out and he got back to me quickly. Our conversation went smoothly, and I booked an appointment for a new tattoo, because it was really important to get something that meant something to me to honor my son. Shay was so sweet in person, professional, and took the time to put his artistic touch on what I wanted. Drone was super cool too, and offered his input as well. Both making me feel completely at ease and trusting them. The shop itself is clean and has a really cool vibe to it. When I saw my finished piece, I just started crying! It was absolutely everything I wanted and more. I hugged Shay over and over and repeatedly told him how grateful I was and told him that I will most definitely be coming back. My 140 pound German Shepherd, Bear died in my arms one month before my son took his life. The last picture I have of my son he was in big bear in the snow with the trees in the landscape. His urn also matches. But, this tattoo incorporates all of it. I'm still getting emotional even writing this review. I absolutely love it and will forever be grateful to you!!! This is what you call professional. Anyone can tattoo, but it takes a real artist to be able to put your vision into a piece that makes you proud to show off. I would recommend the shop to anyone !!! read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I recently had my second appointment with Supreme Drone " Georgious" to add to my right arm sleeve. He took his time listening to what I wanted and then he added his artistry design to keep it feminine and beautiful. This took a few hours, but I appreciate it since this is permanent Ink. The studio was clean and spacious so that always makes it more inviting. I'm extremely happy with my arm and I can't wait to finish it up in the next couple of months. I highly recommend Supreme Drone as your next tattoo artist. Thank you read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Right upper/outer arm, a mixture of several things I wanted, and he added his special touch to make it feminine and beautiful for me. - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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I had a very bad experience with the guy by the name Shay. I was so excited to have my very first tattoo. He requested a 300 dollar deposit. The man disappeared on me. I reached out to everyone who I saw was associated with that account. Mind you I had a lot of hunting to do before I heard back from this character. He never even reached out right away after I reached out to his COLLEAGUES! I am asking for 150 back! And I will not be doing business with a person who has 0 PROFESSIONALISM! I don't RECOMMEND HIM! I saw other REVIEWS ON SHAY!!! Horrible horrible horrible! Stop pretending like you don't know what's happening!!!! I have text messages saved of when I spoke to THE OWNER! The girl that works there and SHAY!!!! So I have enough proof! I will continue to fight for what's RIGHT!!!!! read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - This photo shows Shay in the background - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Prior to my appointment for my full chest piece, I had been following Drone on IG for a while. It's one thing to admire someone's work, but his process is professional and he doesn't have a heavy hand. The space also features amazing artwork by Drone and his inspirations, which as an artist myself I found both fascinating and inspiring. I recommend anyone seriously considering elaborate and detailed designs to check out Drone and the collective he spearheads, worth every hour and dollar spent. read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Custom chest tattooo by Drone at Malaka Tattoo Collective - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

This shop is sick! Wendy was the artist and she really went above and beyond to take my idea (which I thought was a 10/10 ) and turned it into a cosmic level tat! A great place where you can trust the artist and know they won't let you down! check them out! read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Fire Force Deadpool Wolverine mask up - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Hands down the best experience from start to finished working with Drone. His professionalism from a quick response to time from inquiring working on a cover up project to coming up with an amazing design. The studio was a super clean and the art studio showcased some amazing artwork. The actual tattooing was very quick and with very little scabbing. Overall all 10/10 Can't wait to schedule more sessions!!! read more

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Had an amazing time getting my tattoo here with Wendy! Very professional and super chill. The shop is really cool too with loads of art decor! Very clean and relaxing atmosphere. The staff is really nice as well! I highly recommend anyone thinking of getting a tattoo to check out this business and the amazing artists that work here! read more

One of the best tattoo experiences I have ever had. George literally sat there with me and designed the whole tattoo in front of me. Tattoo came out amazing. Exactly what I wanted. The shop is extremely clean and well kept. The vibe the place gives off is really cool as well. Highly recommend this place. I will definitely be scheduling my next one with them read more

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I've had the pleasure of working with Drone on two big tattoos, and I couldn't be happier with the results. Both pieces are by no means small or simple tattoos from what you can see in the photo and they are beautifully done, showcasing Drone's incredible talent and attention to detail. Drone is not only creative but also a lot of fun to work with. He was very collaborative throughout the design process, ensuring that each tattoo perfectly matched my vision. If you're looking for an artist who delivers stunning work and makes the experience enjoyable, I highly recommend Drone. My first tattoo, is the bottom one. It's a memorial of my soul dog Maizy. It turned out EXACTLY like the photo. I got the tattoo about a month after losing her and it was really healing to have such a beautiful piece of artwork come to life that I'd have forever. I specifically came to Drone actually because I saw an incredible dog tattoo he did of a frenchie and I knew I could trust him to capture Maizy perfectly. After my first tattoo with Drone, I recommended him to a friend who ended up getting her first tattoo with him and she loves it so much! My second one is the one starting around my knee going up. I wanted to incorporate the places I've lived in my life to date. I wanted a mix of photography I took and other elements. We collaborate on this one big time. After the first of two sessions about 3/4 of the tattoo was outlined but not the very top. Thankfully because after thinking about it I wanted to make a change to something I had originally included. Come second session I broke the news to Drone that I had a small change and he wasn't worried at all. We pulled it together and off he went finishing it up. Experience 10/10. I recently messaged him that I'm concepting my second 1/2 leg sleeve. Can't wait to go back. read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Two separate tattoos done by the owner Drone. - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Amazing experience! Gage listened to me perfectly about the size and positioning of what I wanted. Once we got the basic layout I trusted on his talent and style to do the rest. My piece came out amazing. I couldn't be happier. read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Orca with waves done in black in gray with 1 color accent. - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I had reached out to Wendy online looking to get a mythical creature tattooed on my pec. She responded quickly with excitement for the concept and we began discussing details. On the day of the tattoo she was extremely patient and helpful making sure that the tattoo size, placement and design were to my liking. She offered great artistic recommendations and was open to collaboration. She was extremely professional during the process and checked in regularly as she was working. The shop is beautiful and extremely clean, tons of beautiful artwork covering the walls, good music playing and the overall vibe was great. The other artists were also extremely professional and a pleasure to speak with. Definitely excited to go back and finish up my piece. Highly recommend Malaka for your tattoo needs! read more

They're so nice there! Looove the tattoo and the vibes were great. the staff was helpful would recommend

Had the honor of getting my first tattoo here vibes were great , Wendy did an amazing job and took great care of me ,as well as the rest of the folks in the shop , definitely would recommend this place. read more

Got a my torso done over a a few sessions. Drone was always on time, friendly and and helpful. Light touch on all sessions, and recovery was a breeze considering the amount on work done. Considering the pace be works at, very much worth. The shop itself is extremely clean, and it might not matter, but it's a complete vibe. Recommend parking around the corner of the block where parking is $10 all day. There's also a complex a bit further done if you prefer the security of it all. But the streets are clean and definitely walkable. I'll be back after the summer for more work. read more

Just had another sitting with my longtime favorite portrait artist, Adrian Gallegos, who recently joined the team at Malaka Tattoo Collective. This is my 12th (yes, 12th!) portrait tattoo from Adrian, whom I've followed from other renowned LA studios over the last eight years. He always captures the realism of my loved ones down to the tiniest details. I am in awe of his talent, and truly appreciate his professionalism and geniality. My most recent portrait is of my auntie, who recently passed away. She was a cut up--even as a kid! This was one of my favorite photos of her, so of course I'd entrust Adrian to memorialize her in ink. I liked the vibe of Adrian's new "home" at Malaka. It's a modern and very large space, very clean. I observed Drone working with a client while I was there. I noticed he takes the time to listen when consulting placement and design options to balance what the client wants vs what the artist knows will be a satisfactory outcome. That's a green flag in my book. read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Freshly done micro-portrait by Adrian Gallegos (left forearm placement) - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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I cannot say enough about my experience with Supreme Drone at Malaka Tattoo in Hollywood. I came in with a flat, poorly drawn, blown out tattoo from a "high end LA tattoo shop" by a "pro" that had left me embarrassed and ashamed. Supreme Drone didn't just cover it, he transformed it into a true work of art. He incorporated a stencil of Blek Le Rat's iconic spray can rat, a tag from Chaz Borquez, a dove of peace inspired by Picasso, and layered it all with striking geometric patterns and secret meanings in the background. The result is modern, powerful, and complete. This tattoo is something that feels deeply personal and beyond words. Its all Drome. This is, without question, the best tattoo I've ever had out of many. Supreme Drone took something I wanted to hide and turned it into a piece I'm proud to show. His vision, skill, and respect for both street art and fine art made the entire process unforgettable. If you're looking for an artist who can elevate your tattoo into something extraordinary, Supreme Drone is the one. read more

Wendy is amazing! She's very sweet, caring, and professional. I felt comfortable the entire time and she's very soft with the tattoo gun. I'd recommend her to anybody! Very pleased with both my tattoos I got from her today. read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Tattoo by Wendy - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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This is my 2nd session at Malaka Tattoo collective and the place is a super chill vibe. My artist Wendy (Hongo Azul) is amazing! Her creativity is 2nd to none! Supreme Drone has put together an amazing space with great talent! Already booked my 3rd appointment! read more

couldn't get a phone call back called several times overpriced is complete nonsense overall terribly bad experience

The ship was AMAZING! Drone made my wife and I feel so welcomed! We were a walk in and although he couldn't take us, he called in another artist, Lim, to tat us! Lim was quick, helpful and light handed! The customer service and cleanliness of the shop is top tier! Highly recommend Drone and his team!!!! Thank you again :) read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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This shop is great! It's nice and clean. The workers here are cool to talk to and Drone's tattoo work is A1. I will definitely be back for more tattoos. read more

Everyone is friendly, professional. Recommend getting a tattoo from Wendy if you into colored tattoos!

I am extremely satisfied with the quality of work and hospitality Wendy provided in today's session. The environment is very chill and excellent taste of music I daresay. I highly recommend it to check it out. I heard of them through social media;moreover, their instagram. Give it a look! Very talented artist at this tattoo shop. read more

I saw Yair's work on Instagram and decided to take a leap of faith and it was the best decision I've ever made!!!! I can't stop looking at the portrait of my daughter that I don't get to see and now I can see her forever!!!! I wake up and look at it and then I'm happy This shop is the best one that I've ever been to!!!! Super nice inside, super clean, music was they even had snacks to munch on!! The entire staff was friendly and down to Earth, too!!!! Def. Going back for more thank you sooooo much Yair!!!! ‍ read more

Malaka Tattoo Collective - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

This is the best shop. Period. Hands down. The artists here are all beyond talented, and each have their own unique styles that suit whatever anyone would want. Everyone was also so friendly and welcoming. Are they the cheapest in town? Nope. But is a tattoo something you really want to cheap out on? Just had my first tattoo done by George Drone and I am shocked at how awesome the experience was. He was incredibly patient, professional and overall just a great guy to work with. Truly a master at his craft. He spent nearly 3 hours creating multiple designs for me to choose from. Showing just how much he cares about his work. The 6.5 hours of actual tattooing absolutely flew by with how comfortable everyone there made me. Christina and Hannah were super friendly too and great people to have around during my experience. I couldn't be happier with the absolute masterpiece that George created. As a side note, it was way less painful than expected and the healing process is going very well also. read more

I met a lot of the folks who work here at a tattoo convention. Everyone was lovely, friendly and professional. I've gotten tattooed with Alper a bunch of times, he's the best! read more

Malaka is very welcoming, such a beautiful atmosphere and studio. I got tattooed by Ariel and omg, it was such an amazing experience. She made me comfortable the whole time. Ariel is a natural, I sent her a design and she drew it out and added her twist and that's what i really love when it comes to art/tattoos. She is an ARTIST. And if you look at her other work, it's just like "wow, yeah that's who i want to get a tattto by" i can't explain how nervous but excited i was. She was very delicate, very attentive, patient and just overall 10/10. I'm definitely going back and getting another tattoo by Ariel. i'm so excited already. I also liked that the other artist peak at others work and compliment them or give them tips. Everyone I seen just looked happy to be there, that tattoo artsits and clients. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. read more

Ale was my artist,The tattoo is just lovely.Excellent communication/customer service.I couldn't be happier and will be going back.BOOK ASAP! Best artist on the map! A must go to spot if you are trying to get an amazingly clean tattoo! He's such a perfectionist. He definitely went above my expectations read more