Because the unsettling reality is, not every tattoo artist does.
City of Ink instilled in me that Black people can get pretty much any color.
They’re completely left out and it’s not even like those cultures are dead.
@kandacelayne
They’re still here, explains Layne.
This needs to become the norm.
It makes clients feel more welcome, she says.
@kandacelayne
She says the most immediate action they can take is to make their staff more diverse.
Tattooers should aim to have diversity in their shops by hiring BIPOC and women, she says.
Sometimes that may mean hiring people who were tattooing in unfit environments or trying to teach themselves.
@dangerdaveink
They could try helping these artists, or hire already established BIPOC, which there are plenty of.
Show some support in whatever way you’re able to.
Even if you might’t apprentice someone, if you see someone needing help, reach out to them.
@miryamlumpini
Just do something, but you have to open your circle, she explains.
This flower tattoo was done by Layne, who specializes in geometric and henna/mehndi inspired ornamental tattoos.
If you scroll through Daves Instagram, youll see that he mainly uses black ink in his work.
@amandawachob
His portfolio includes a lot of portraits, tribal pieces, and tributes to Black icons includingMadam C.J.
Walker,Muhammad Ali, andMaya Angelou.
Abstract Angel Portrait
@unclebree
If minimalist pieces are more your speed, consider something like this.
@unclebree
This piecedone by Atlanta-based tattoo artist Kru Mackenzieboasts an elephant decorated by red and blue watercolor-esque floral designs.
Watercolor Fish Tattoo
Fish hold a multitude of meanings, ranging from good fortune to fertility.
This fish tattoo by Brazilian tattoo artist India is incredibly vibrant, boasting bright purple and blue ink.
@humblebeetattoo
Brooklyn-based tattoo artist Jaz Paulino is known for creating pieces like this, featuring dainty lines and watercolor techniques.
Here, the Tree of Life is centered in a mandala.
Done by the UK-based HoneyBadgerTattoo, this abstract portrait also features bright pops of blue.
@inkofallcolors
Letter Tattoo
This lettering tattoo spells Black Lives Matter in the Wakandan alphabet.
Black Woman Tattoo
@jaybaby.tattoo
This black ink portraitdone by JayBabyTattoodepicts a beautiful Black woman.
Hints of white ink can be found in this piece, which gives it an extra pop.
@gentle_jaz
This hand and finger tattoo is also adorned with leafy, permanent-henna designs.
@humblebeetattoo
@honeybadger___tattoo
@jaybaby.tattoo
@americandebbie
