Martin and Jirina, a dynamic husband and wife duo, share a profound passion for entrepreneurship and the arts. Combining their talents, they founded The Temple, a tattoo studio that defies the conventions of traditional tattoo shops.

Their vision was to create a welcoming, modern, and friendly environment where clients could receive exceptional tattoos in a relaxed atmosphere. Through personalised consultations and a focus on collaboration, Martin and Jirina ensure that each tattoo is a masterpiece tailored to the client’s vision.

Jirina’s journey into the world of tattooing is anything but conventional. Originally studying criminal law, she found herself lacking passion for the field. A move to England to learn English led to a spontaneous meeting with Martin. During a visit to Martin’s family, an enlightening conversation with a fellow traveller ignited Jirina’s passion for tattoo artistry. Embracing her spiritual nature, she saw this as a sign to pursue her true calling, landing a job at a tattoo studio in the Bussey Building.

The vibrant and diverse community of Peckham, with its unique cultural tapestry, drew Martin and Jirina to the area. Jirina, having previously worked in another tattoo studio within Copeland Park, felt a deep connection to the location. It was Martin who suggested they establish their own studio, and upon meeting Resident Manager, Jules they found Copeland Park to be incredibly accommodating. Embracing the gamble, they chose the Bussey Building as the ideal space to bring their dream to life.

Temple stands out for its warm, inviting atmosphere, a stark contrast to the often-intimidating traditional tattoo shops. The pair prioritise their clients, making each session deeply personal and collaborative. They believe tattoos become a part of the individual, and their mission is to make the experience joyful and meaningful. Clients start their day with a detailed consultation, designing the tattoo together with Temple. They can then explore Copeland Park, grab lunch at the nearby café Social, and return to bring their designs to life. The studio offers a laid-back vibe, blending empathy, creativity, and innovation, with a steadfast commitment to excellence and quality.

Joining the Copeland Park community has provided Martin and Jirina with a modern, lively, and prominently positioned studio. The front-facing space naturally attracts passers-by, creating an inviting gateway for their business to thrive. Though they have been residents for only four months, they look forward to gaining more exposure and becoming a staple within the Copeland Park family.

Looking ahead, Martin and Jirina plan to host workshops at this year’s Peckham Festival in September. They aim to connect with other tattoo artists in South East London, fostering a collaborative community. Their vision includes convincing fellow tattoo artists to open locations in Peckham, transforming it into a modern-day hub for diverse and innovative tattoo parlours, in comparison to the traditional tattoo scene in Camden.

For a consultation, you can drop by The Temple‘s home in DGA Studio in the Bussey Building Tuesday-Sunday each week or fill out the book enquiry form on their website to start the unique Temple collaborative tattooing process!

Words: Salma Ali