OUR WHY

As the new dawn unfurled from behind the pine trees, it cast a vibrant pallet of golds and oranges onto the Arkansas skies. This was not just another day but week eight in Inked Magazine's Cover Girl competition. And I was knocked out of the semi finals at the last second by another gorgeous, tattooed woman. Was I mad? Not really. I was excited to be part of the movement, the fundraiser, and the sisterhood of so many beautifully tattooed women.

Pausing to savor the present moment, I took a comforting sip of my coffee. I found myself reflecting on the evolution of being a tattooed woman compared to when I was younger. The past two decades have witnessed a tremendous surge in representation and inclusivity within this culture. This couldn't have been more apparent than in the vibrant Facebook group where I happened upon an incredible tapestry of diverse women all hailing from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, age groups, and body types - all united by their love for tattoos.

I reached for my phone resting nearby and located the profile of the woman who won first place within our group. Enthusiastically tapping on her vote button for the upcoming semi-finals, I wanted to empower another woman - a cause that resonates profoundly with me. Although I decided not to participate again personally, finding this extraordinary community dedicated to celebrating tattoo art left me brimming with anticipation about exploring it further.

Within the Facebook community, an idea emerged from several women. They proposed assembling a magazine that would showcase all the marvelous contenders of the Inked Cover Girl Competition and other inked women. It was Kate who caught my eye with her suggestion to spearhead such an endeavor. Having extensively dabbled in self-publishing before, I eagerly jumped at the chance to lend a helping hand.

Thus, began our creative journey crafting a tribute that focuses on revering tattoo culture and celebrating the sisterhood of inked women. We honor the powerful sisterhood that exists within inked women, cherishing those who transform themselves into living, breathing works of art. It was through participating in Inked Magazine’s 2024 competition that brought us together. I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for having had the opportunity to witness such strength and mutual encouragement among women throughout this endeavor. Here is raising a toast to every competitor out there- together, we have made it possible!