*racism
*discrimination
*don't wear masks
So,
I recently went to this place to get some thoughts on a cover up tattoo and I literally have never had such a horrendous experience.
First, I came in and this guy seemed shocked that I came into his shop. I explained to him that I wanted to get a cover up of two small line tattoos. Super small, very easy to cover up.
I didn't have a particular illustration in mind, but was hoping to work with someone to implement the current line work with a new abstract line tattoo.
He seemed agitated the whole time. I didn't have an illustration prepared for him and that seemed to bother him. Although, I wanted to work with him on designing it. He literally told me that the only option that I had was to place a basic rose on the tattoos.
Then, he proceeded to tell me that the only option I had was laser tattoo removal.
I was shocked and honestly really upset.
My several other tattoos have been done by artists in D.C, Providence, Berlin, Reykjavik, and Seattle and I've never experienced this sheer unwillingness to work with me on a small tattoo design.
I have two small/medium line tattoos that very clearly can be covered up with additional line work.
I'm confused because I can't help but wonder if their complete disregard for working on an illustration with me is because I'm bigger size and a POC (latinx).
This space is white and male and southern... and I've literally never been so encouraged to walk out the door. This guy said to me " you know, cover ups are a difficult thing to do." And while I understand that, I also have some knowledge of the industry and know for a fact that these tattoos can be covered without suggesting laser removal.
I honestly don't recommend this place at all and would suggest that anyone seek more experienced tattoo artists/shops in Asheville or Raleigh.
UPDATED*** Response to Owner's note below.
Let's make something perfectly clear. When I came in, it was not a walk in. I've gotten enough tattoos in my life to know that if I need a custom design, a consultation needs to be booked in advance. I called the shop that previous Friday and the person on the phone told me to come in on Wednesday at 3:30pm. I showed up. I expected that someone would work with me because I had called in for a consultation. Secondly, at no point in my conversation did the tattoo artist want to schedule another consultation time. The artist had already told me that my only option (other than just putting a rose on top to cover it) was laser tattoo removal. At that point, I did not have much faith in who I was working with or the space that I was in.
And finally, my claims that your establishment is discriminatory stems from my experience with your employee on that day AND other people of color in the Winston Salem community that have had less than pleasant experiences at Old North State. I am a resident of this community for over 25 years and do not speak lightly when I observe an establishment has caused implicit harm on people from the black/latinx community.
Also, your so-called "caring and community-centered" ethics are less than evident in this community, especially when (according to various sources) your establishment remained open during peak contagion of Covid-19. Additionally, your tattoo artists were not wearing masks when I walked into your establishment. I'm also doubtful that you require clients to wear a mask while inside the tattoo shop.
I urge Old North State to reflect on the communal decisions and attitudes that you have taken in the past and change moving forward. read more