Videos

 Former APT President and current Board Member, Shahn Anderson, discusses why you should be a part of the APT and what we're doing for the tattoo trade.  

 Selina discusses the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulations Act (MoCRA) 

Pat Sinatra is a trail blazer in the tattoo industry. Not only a founding member of the Alliance of Professional Tattooists, APT, but also one of the early pioneers of women within the tattoo industry.  

 In this episode of the Artful Dollar Podcast, Ryan welcomes Selena Medina; a tattoo artist, scientist, and board member of the Association of Professional Tattooers (APT).   Together, Ryan and Selina discuss the importance of unity among tattoo artists to combat regulatory threats, misinformation about tattoo ink safety, and the looming dangers posed by potential corporate takeovers.   Selina shares her extensive knowledge on product safety and regulatory battles while emphasizing the critical role of the APT in preserving the future of tattooing. Join them for an eye-opening conversation that's vital for any artist passionate about the craft and its future.
 

 This week on The Business of Tattooing, we’re joined by Mick O'Herien - tattooer, owner of the historic Shotzi's Tattoo, and President of the Alliance for Professional Tattooists (APT).  Mick opens up about his humble beginnings, sharing the powerful story of how he became Shotzi's last apprentice and the emotional journey of eventually buying and restoring the legendary shop to its former glory. He gets real about the "imposter syndrome" many artists face and the weight of upholding such an important legacy.  The conversation then pivots to the critical state of the industry today. Mick and Rob discuss the immense challenges we face, from skyrocketing rent and market oversaturation to the looming threat of misguided federal regulations, like the single-use ink cartridge law Mick successfully fought in New York a decade ago.  They break down why these fights are more important than ever.  As APT President, Mick provides a transparent look into the organization's mission: to create a federally recognized trade, establish peer-reviewed safety and educational standards (like their Master Tattooer program), and provide a unified voice against harmful legislation. They emphasize that the APT isn't about gatekeeping, but about "strengthening the gates" to protect both artists and clients.  This episode is a must-listen for any tattoo artist who cares about the craft, its history, and its future. Mick’s passion is contagious, and his message is clear: it's time to come together as a community to safeguard the industry we love. 

 This week on The Business of Tattooing, Rob sits down with Selina Medina - tattoo artist, Vice President of the Alliance for Professional Tattooists (APT), and a leading expert in tattoo ink chemistry and regulatory affairs.  The conversation dives deep into the complex and often overwhelming challenges facing the tattoo industry today. They start by examining the current, polarized state of the business, where some artists are thriving while others struggle, and how the global supply chain is feeling the pinch. From there, they pull back the curtain on the massive threat posed by cheap, unregulated products flooding the market from overseas, often through platforms like Amazon, and the severe risks they pose to both artists and clients.  The core of the discussion focuses on the looming specter of government regulation. Selina breaks down the high stakes battle over language, specifically why removing the term "injection" from regulatory discussions is a fight for the industry's very survival. She provides expert insight into the potential domino effect this could have, from skyrocketing product costs to requiring medical oversight, which could fundamentally change the profession as we know it.  Rob and Selina also discuss the lessons learned from the European Union's REACH regulations, which have banned critical pigments like Blue 15 and Green 7 based on what they argue is flawed science, creating a public health crisis of its own. They emphasize the urgent need for manufacturers and artists to unite under organizations like the APT and the newly forming TIMA (Tattoo Industry Manufacturers Alliance) to present a unified, informed front to regulators.  This episode is a powerful call to action. It’s a must-listen for any tattoo artist or manufacturer who wants to understand the forces at play behind the scenes and learn how to protect their craft, their business, and the future of the industry they love. 

Delving into the ink beneath the skin: Recent studies show the compounds in popular tattoo inks are common additives also found in foods, drugs, and cosmetics. The concentrations are substantially below permitted levels, suggesting safe exposure levels. As the tattoo industry gains popularity, there's a strong push for more ingredient research and transparency, yet current evidence does not suggest high toxicity. It's reassuring to know that our body art is not just beautiful, but also safe. Here's to continued analysis and enhancing safety practices. 

 Interviews with Dr. Matt Davis and Dr. Sean Burn about the sensationalist news articles about tattoos and ingredients, and their professional opinion about their validity and substance. 

 What did the doctors think about all the recent news concerning the safety of tattoo ingredients? It’s easy to get swept up in sensationalist headlines, losing sight of the need to seek the truths and opinions from medical practitioners. We should focus not on those opposed to tattooing and trying to find issues with it, but rather, seek the views of those who have personal experience with tattooing and can offer a professional opinion. 

In 2013, my frustration led me to action. I became deeply involved in reshaping tattoo regulations in my home state, New Mexico, despite fierce resistance.  In 2019, I joined the Alliance of Professional Tattoo (APT), a unifying force for our industry. Little did I know that the looming pandemic would allow me to dive deeper into global tattoo regulations.  A pivotal email arrived, introducing the Modernization of Cosmetic Regulation Act. Tattooing was officially deemed part of the cosmetic industry, a move with far-reaching consequences.  Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, Europe was facing its own tattooing regulation problems. Reach regulations, designed for chemicals, were ill-suited for our craft. European tattoo artists found themselves in hot water, using products that they'd trusted for years.  The FDA's actions echoed globally, affecting us all. Small manufacturers felt the strain of increased protocols. The FDA's guide on microbial contamination in tattooing created unnecessary panic.  Our industry stands at a crossroads. APT, though imperfect, has become a platform for our collective voice. Committees are forming to address state representation, education, and more.  Join me in shaping the future of tattooing. By becoming part of APT, you're not just a member; you're a vital force securing our craft's place in the world.  In a world of ink and regulations, let's come together to ensure that tattooing remains vibrant, creative, and, above all, safe.  

Video provided by National Environmental Health Association

Video provided by National Environmental Health Association

 How do the body art industry and environmental health fit together? Join us for an hour-long webinar. We'll be diving into topics such as BBPs in the body art industry, building relationships between inspectors and body artists, and handling illegal body art practitioners.

Video provided by National Environmental Health Association

 To purchase physical copy of DVD visit the Big Cartel store: https://cotlfilm.bigcartel.com/product/color-outside-the-lines-tattoo-documentary-dvd 

Directed by: Artemus Jenkins Conceived and Produced by: Miya Bailey Music by: Go Dreamer and Brian Sterling of Operation A.D.D./ The Flush  

Struggle, Joy, Failure, Success; words like these could serve as the backdrop for the next big hollywood blockbuster, or as a description of a tattoo artists life. Color Outside the Lines is the first film that provides a deep look into the history, culture and lives of the world's top black tattoo artists. Creating a film that would accurately tell the stories of these amazing artists, was initially a dream that manifested into a reality when world renowned tattoo artist, Miya Bailey linked with burgeoning filmmaker Artemus Jenkins. After three years of filming and tattooing everywhere from Atlanta to Amsterdam, this film is here to make sure the story and legacies of these artists will live on forever.