racism in the tattoo industry
ALLURE: TATTOO ARTISTS OF COLOR ON WORKING WITH DARK SKIN
INKBOX: COLORBLIND, THE STRUGGLES POC FACE WITH THE TATTOO INDUSTRY
all tattooers have a responsibility to combat racism in the tattoo industry. I am a white tattooer. racism is a huge issue in the tattoo industry, both in shops and the DIY world, perpetuated by white tattooers taking on white apprentices and teaching them that ‘tattooing POC is harder’ or ‘colored ink on dark skin isn’t possible.’ portfolio images get desaturated to black and white, and some racist tattoo “artists” do not tattoo POC at all because it “won’t fit with their portfolio” or “doesn’t work with their style.” none of these claims are true, but they are unfortunately still said. in my practice, this will never be the case.
to my BIPOC clients and followers: I do know how to tattoo you. I want to tattoo you, and I do not want to treat you or your skin as an experiment for my skills or for clout. your body is not my canvas: your body is your canvas.
when I have the means, and my booking is open, I offer free slots for BIPOC that are posted on my instagram. my intention here is to invite folks into my studio where their safety and comfort is centered, and I will never turn down anyone for a tattoo based on the color of their skin.
right now, the majority of the tattoos in my portfolio, or the ones that I have done, are on white skin, and although I do not choose this in my clients, I understand that viewing my portfolio may cause BIPOC to wonder if it is intentional. it is not, and I have a very small audience, comparatively, and I am excited to tattoo all kinds of hues of skin as my client base grows!
the only alterations that would ever be made for your tattooing experience based on skin color would be discussing bolder lines or more negative space for contrast, alteration of details or size on a design for best healing, and aftercare based on your skin type to make your tattoo look beautiful on your body for years to come. you will never be denied any flash design based on the color of your skin, and edits can always be made! getting a tattoo is a collaboration between you and me, and your input is valuable! as for everyone, touchup appointments for your healed tattoo are free.
in my studio, I consider giving a tattoo a very humbling and intimate experience, the conversation and atmosphere being a permanent part of the tattoo as well. it is my goal that you feel safe, comfortable, and in a space where you can advocate for yourself without judgement.
this is a practice I have built with the stories of individuals who experienced racism, homophobia and transphobia, and sexual assault in mind. your safety is my number one priority.
here, please know your tattoo is not just a job to me. please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments. You can do so with the form under the tab ‘contact.’