Creativity with ink on the skin

IN an era where self-expression is hailed as a prized virtue, the world of tattooing has risen to the forefront as a prominent form of artistic expression, attracting a diverse clientele seeking to etch their narratives onto their skin.

Meet the dynamic trio behind INKstinctTattoosZwe: Tendai Sithole known as Teendo, Thabiso Thebe, aka Trixxx, and Gift Moyo, who goes by HK. These visionary tattoo artists and body piercers have masterfully transformed their passion into a thriving enterprise, meeting the burgeoning demand for distinctive and personalised body art.

As the heartbeat of INKstinctTattoosZwe, Teendo humbly recounts their journey since November 2021, attributing their success to their passion for art and their deep-rooted desire to provide a sanctuary for those navigating the labyrinth of mental health challenges.

“INKstinctTattoosZwe was born out of our collective passion for art and self-expression through tattoos. We wanted to create a safe space where people could get quality, unique and meaningful tattoos. Tattoos are also known to be a therapeutic experience for some individuals. With a lot of mental health issues these days, we are inspired to assist through our craft.

“The response from our clients has been immensely positive. They appreciate the creativity, quality and attention to detail in our work. Our tattoo business, INKstinctTattoosZwe, has experienced significant growth and success in the market as we are one of the first professional tattoo studio in the City of Bulawayo,” Teendo said.

Teendo and Trixxx attribute a considerable portion of their triumph to the evolving societal acceptance and appreciation of tattoos. What once stood as an emblem of rebellion and counter-culture has metamorphosed into a canvas for personal storytelling and soulful declaration. This seismic shift in perception has paved an inviting avenue for INKstinctTattoosZwe to flourish.

“We have been fortunate enough to collaborate with several prominent individuals around the country, including local celebrities and renowned influencers, who have trusted us with creating their unique tattoo designs. These are the likes of ASAPH, Shadel Noble, POY, Qeqeshiwe Mntambo, Novuyo Sea Girl just to mention a few,” said Teendo.

Yet, it’s INKstinctTattoosZwe’s reverence for cultural heritage that sets them apart. Armed with an extensive knowledge of symbolism and history, each design woven by their skilled hands carries not just aesthetic appeal but a profound narrative.

“What sets us apart is our team of talented artists who bring diverse styles and innovative designs to our customers not forgetting our own in-house professional piercing artist. We provide a clean and safe environment, strictly adhering to all hygiene protocols.

We offer a wide range of tattoo styles, from traditional to realistic, ensuring we cater to every customer’s preferences and desires. Our studio is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making the tattoo experience memorable and enjoyable for all,” Teendo said.

However, the path to their present stature was not without challenges. Building an identity, securing a steadfast clientele and beating competition were early hurdles. But with perseverance and constant evolution, they carved their place in the industry.

As their journey continues, they envision expanding their influence by collaborating with fellow artists and orchestrating tattoo conventions to spotlight the tapestry of talent within the field. A thriving community of enthusiasts and a vibrant platform for artists to showcase their craft are central to their aspirations.

“We aspire to expand our business and open multiple branches around the country, becoming a renowned name in the tattoo industry. We also aim to collaborate with both local and international artists, and also participate in prestigious tattoo conventions around the world. We are still in the process of creating our own tattoo festival here in the City of Bulawayo,” Teendo said.
@TashaMutsiba.