Videos

 APT President, 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) 

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.