Body artists showed up at the Palacio de Maynila along Roxas Boulevard last June 26 for the tattoo convention P.Inked (Pilipinas Inked). What sets it apart from other events of this kind is that it seeks to celebrate the empowerment of women as tattoo artists. Manila Today caught up with its founder and organizer, Khamill Batuigas, and asked her some questions about the craft:
MT: Tell us more about P.Inked. When was it formed, and why was it formed?
P.Inked is an event conceptualized and held to celebrate both women and the art of tattooing. This event started four years ago. The goal of P.Inked is to empower women with tattoos— to be confident to fight against discrimination which is prevalent among tattooed individuals and violence and harassment which is a huge concern for women.
MT: Does P.Inked have any particular objectives? What makes it different from other tattoo groups in the Philippines?
P.Inked in contrast to other tattoo conventions and competitions is focused on women— particularly female artists, musicians and tattoo collectors.
MT: Do you think the public perceptions tattoos has changed in Philippine society?
Yes. Today, having ink as a personal and artistic statement has become more mainstream, yet there are still some closed minded individuals who still view tattoos based on negative stereotypes.
MT: How long have you been tatooing?
I am an entrepreneur who owns Cherrybomb Shoppe, a tattoo supply store. I’ve been running this business for 7 years now, but I’ve been in the tattoo industry for 18 years.
MT: Why did you choose this career path?Who/what inspired you to pursue tattooing?
I’ve always had a passion for tattoos. It is a statement that goes beyond skin deep and shows how serious you are about the things you are passionate about.
MT: Do you have any designs that are ‘favorites’ or ‘hot’
My favorite design is neo-traditional. It combines the classic designs with an updated twist.
MT: What are the challenges faced by women tattoo artists in the Philippines?
At the moment, the scene is still dominated by male tattoo artists. I guess it is due to the fact that for so many years, Filipinos view that tattoos and women don’t match. But as times change, women tattoo artists have started showing their unique skills and talents.
MT: How do you envision the future of tattooing in the Philippines in general, and for women tattoo artists in particular?
As public perceptions change, tattooing will soon be more accepted by the Filipinos, in line with this more Filipina artists will explore this craft and join our growing ranks of highly esteemed ink slingers.
