by Cassie Forsythe
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Celyane Anne Muyuk also known as Mamawolf, and I am from Bundu Tuhan, Ranau, Sabah. My father, a school headmaster, is Dusun from Bundu Tuhan, and my mother, a homemaker, is Eurasian from Glugor, Penang. Growing up in a mixed-cultural household shaped the way I see the world, with discipline, openness and creativity.
As a child, I was actively involved in English school debates. I was a science stream student who genuinely enjoyed both Biology and English. I have always appreciated the balance between logic and expression, and in many ways, that combination eventually led me to tattooing.
Tell us about your career journey on deciding to go into tattooing full time.
Before entering tattooing, I worked across various industries, as a make-up artist, hairdresser, in event management, and even in finance. I was constantly exploring, searching for something that truly aligned with who I am.
During the COVID-19 period, I began to feel confined and unfulfilled in my role. It was a time that forced me to reflect deeply on my purpose. I realised I wanted to devote my time to something meaningful and creative, something that felt authentic to me rather than simply secure.
I initially joined a tattoo studio as a shop manager, intending to learn and observe. However, over time, I found myself increasingly drawn to the craft. What began as curiosity gradually became commitment. Eventually, I chose to step fully into the role of a tattoo artist. It was one of the most significant and courageous decisions I have ever made.
Share a memorable moment in your career.
Being a woman in a male-dominated industry has been both challenging and empowering. One of the most memorable aspects of my journey has been when clients , sometimes even strangers, approach me to express how proud they are of my career choice.
Some have shared that they admire the courage it took to leave stability behind in pursuit of something I truly wanted. Others have told me they wish they had taken similar risks in their own lives.
Hearing that is incredibly meaningful. If my journey can inspire even one woman to step confidently into spaces traditionally dominated by men, then I believe I am contributing to something greater than myself.
What’s the most meaningful tattoo you’ve ever created — and why did it stay with
There are honestly too many to name.
Every tattoo carries a story, tributes to loved ones who have passed, sibling tattoos, friendship pieces. I find it deeply moving when people choose to honour their relationships in such a permanent and personal way.
One that remains vivid in my memory involved a husband and wife getting their first tattoos, a recreation of their daughter’s drawing of the three of them when she was five years old. The drawing was imperfectly perfect. When I completed the piece, the way they looked at each other and at the tattoo filled my heart completely.
Moments like that remind me that tattooing is not merely about ink. It is about preserving memories, love and connection.
What advice would you give to someone who is uncertain about getting a tattoo – the general being, will I regret it in the future.
It is completely natural to feel uncertain, as tattoos are permanent.
My advice would be to take your time and research your chosen artist carefully. Every tattooist has a distinct style. Find one whose work resonates with you, something that makes you smile or gives you a quiet sense of excitement when you see it.
Equally important is hygiene and proper operating procedures. Ensure the studio maintains high standards of cleanliness and safety to prevent cross-contamination and health risks. Do not hesitate to ask questions and educate yourself on how a professional tattoo studio should operate.
Most importantly, do not fear the art form itself. Tattoos are a beautiful expression of identity and storytelling when approached thoughtfully.
If you were not a tattooist, what would you be?
I have asked myself this question many times.
If I were not a tattoo artist, I would likely run an event space, somewhere that hosts weddings, concerts, birthdays and corporate functions. I love the idea of creating environments where meaningful moments unfold.
That said, I would also be perfectly content as a full-time housewife (laughs). At heart, I simply enjoy nurturing, creating and caring, whether through art, business, or family life.
What does “I Am” mean to you at this stage of your life?
At this stage of my life, “I Am” signifies ownership and acceptance.
It represents standing confidently in who I am, even if my path has not been conventional. It means embracing both my uncertainties and my growth, and choosing courage over comfort.
“I Am” is no longer a question for me. It is a declaration. I am building something of my own, and I am proud of the woman I am becoming.
On your day off, how do you like to recharge and stay active, or do you fully rest?
Being a tattoo artist often means long hours and late nights. On my days off, I usually prefer to rest at home, binge-watch my favourite television series, and spend time with family or close friends.
Sometimes that means quiet evenings. Sometimes it means laughter over drinks.
If time and budget allow, I enjoy short holidays or road trips, especially returning to cooler places like Bundu Tuhan. Nature has a way of grounding me.
We all love food!
We usually ask : What are your top three must-eat dishes or favourite places to eat in Sabah? But we’d like you to inject some advice. On eating a good and satisfying meal what would you recommend?
Despite my petite figure, I am quite a big eater (laughs).
First would be Sinalau Bakas, especially when paired with linopot rice. I love it both smoked and served in soup. Having it at roadside stalls along the journey back to Bundu Tuhan, in the cool weather, dipping the smoky meat into spicy chilli, that is pure comfort for me.
Second is Fish Karaatan** (also known as Sinamu) a traditional preserved fish mixed with rice and stored in a jar, often prepared with panggi (wild tamarind) for its distinctive tangy depth. It is a humble yet flavourful dish that you can usually find at local tamu (traditional markets). It carries a strong sense of heritage and reminds me of the beauty of indigenous food traditions.
Lastly, I have a soft spot for Filipino sisig. Sabah’s cultural diversity is reflected in our food, and I love how vibrant and bold sisig is, savoury, slightly spicy, and best enjoyed shared. Places like Tambayan and Kuya serve comforting versions that I truly enjoy.
My advice when it comes to food? Be adventurous, support local vendors at tamu and small eateries, and allow yourself to experience the stories behind the dishes. In Sabah, food is never just food, it is culture, memory and identity.
Celyane goes by mamawolftattoos on IG and is 1 of 3 female tattooist at rustycaketattoos,
**Fish Karaatan / Sinamu is also known as Bosou
