Founder of NEOLUKU 

My name is Yanoezs Thenu, tattoo artist since 1997. With over 28 years of experience, I have put thousands of stories under the skin — from powerful symbols to personal transformations. Yet I felt the need for something deeper. Something that is not only beautiful, but also meaningful, universal and innovative. From that search, NEOLUKU was born.

A bridge between tradition and innovation

I grew up in the Netherlands, with Moluccan roots. My work has always been a fusion of influences: from graffiti and calligraphy to Polynesian and Indonesian patterns. Over the years, I became increasingly fascinated by symbolism — and especially the power of drawings that tell something essential about a person.

Yet I also saw the sensitivity of traditional styles. Many Polynesian or tribal symbols have a deep, often sacred meaning. They belong to specific tribes, families or rituals. Just copying them didn't feel right. I wanted to create something that pays homage to the origins, but is at the same time free of cultural appropriation.

The birth of NEOLUKU

NEOLUKU is my answer to that quest. The name combines the Greek word “Neo” (new) with “Luku”, derived from Maluku – my roots. It is a modern style, rooted in Austronesian influences, but with room for personal translation.

Every NEOLUKU tattoo is unique. Not based on old symbols, but on newly designed patterns, tailored to the person who wears it. Think of numbers, zodiac signs, initials, or even provinces and continents – all processed in their own visual language.

My Mission

NEOLUKU is not a fad or a trend. It is a living style. A way to give new meaning to tattoo art. To give shape to who you are, where you come from, or what you want to leave behind. My mission is to translate those stories into a design that you will carry with you forever.

Whether you come for a small symbol or a full bodysuit: my goal is for you to leave the shop with something that is truly yours.

TERIMA KASIH