Living History With Modern Tastes: Shaman Modifications
A time-honored tradition championed in a modern metropolis
Words by Deven Wilson
Welcoming artists behind the sparkling glass display cases are eager to show anyone who walks through the doors the latest in their collection. The people are what makes Shaman Body Modifications, an upscale piercing parlor, stand out from the familiar grunge found in a tattoo/piercing shop.
“We’re always gonna save space for everybody,” reflects Pineapple Tangaroa, founder of Shaman, on the atmosphere he’s created in his shop. His ethos comes through in the friendly greeting upon entering and the overall sense that they’re treating what they do with the utmost professionalism. That care extends far beyond the showroom. “I’m so very protective of our studio,” Pineapple adds, “Not only because it’s my investment, but it’s also part of my legacy.” Seeking out artists and piercers who meet his high level of standards is difficult, but that dedication is the foundation of what Pineapple has built at Shaman Mods.
The extensive history of body modification lives vibrantly in Pineapple’s background in anthropology. He transferred from Kent State to what is now known as Texas State University, seeking out the school’s reputable anthropology department where he dove into the rich human history of body modification.
I’m so very protective of our studio. Not only because it’s my investment, it’s part of my legacy.
Pineapple Tangaroa
His newfound passion eventually led him to Austin to pursue the practice of body modification himself. In Austin, he began to study at Golden Apple Studios under the 6th Street master piercer known as Silver. After getting his bearings, Pineapple learned the shop was closing. The owner of Golden Apple Studios, Daniel Upton, asked Pineapple if he would take over the shop as Silver left. Selling pretty much everything he owned, he managed it, with only a fistful of piercings under his belt. Working more hours than there are in a day, he made something out of nothing. There was no stopping his vision to give customers a safe space to find their way back to this ancient practice in a modern setting.
Taking inspiration from the tradition of a Shaman and fostering the culture through body modifications, Pineapple and his team continue that legacy on the Eastside. They’ve seen generations come through their doors. “We do kids’ ears. We do grandmas’ ears. We do body piercing, genital piercings, and everything under the sun,” he says proudly. They strive to be a space where, even in the midst of a pandemic, people feel cared for. Shaman goes the extra mile to create videos explaining proper care after procedures and limiting how many can come into the store so the immunocompromised feel safe.
Taking influences from the past, Shaman Modifications keeps another eye facing forward. The team is always seeking innovation in the services they provide for their clientele, such as forever jewelry. Blending the permanence of tattoos with the body decor of necklaces or bracelets, people can have jewelry on them forever. Shaman Mods brings timeless tradition of modification and establishes themselves as a staple in the tattoo, piercing, and forever jewelry community.
Contact:
1901 E 7th St.
13219 Research Blvd. #200
shamanmods.com
@shamanmods
