Bhubaneswar: In the bustling city of Bhubaneswar, where tattoo parlours are a common sight, a new wave of artistic expression is emerging, led by three talented women tattoo artists. Baishali Pradhan, Priyanka Sahu, and Arpita Mohanty are breaking stereotypes and carving their names into the vibrant tapestry of the tattoo art scene in the city.
For Baishali Pradhan, tattoo art is more than just a profession—it’s a celebration of culture and heritage. Hailing from the Kondha tribe, where tattooing has been a tradition for generations, Baishali feels a deep connection to the art form. “Tattoo art is beautiful as it allows us to express ourselves on our skin,” she shares.
“Learning the intricate art of tattooing was a journey I embarked upon with the guidance of my husband, Om Acharya,” Baishali Pradhan shares with a warm smile.
Despite facing skepticism and discouragement from some quarters, Baishali has honed her skills over the past three years, mastering the intricate techniques of tattooing.
She adds, “Women are in every field, and there are many women who have made a name for themselves in the field of art. Tattoo making is no exception, and women can excel in this field as well.”
Priyanka Sahu, a graduate in fine arts from Utkal University of Culture, brings her creative flair and passion for design to the world of tattoo art. With two years of experience under her belt, Priyanka emphasizes the importance of precision and confidence in this delicate art form.
“There is no room for error when it comes to tattooing. Each stroke must be executed with utmost care and confidence,” she explains.
Despite initial reservations from her family, Priyanka has persevered, determined to make her mark in the industry. She adds, “There is a scope for female tattoo artists in Bhubaneswar, and thus I started doing this. However, I still continue doing painting on canvas as I love both art forms.”
Arpita Mohanty, a former engineering student, discovered her passion for tattoo art just six months ago. Inspired by the work of her peers, Baishali and Priyanka, Arpita embarked on a journey of learning and self-discovery. “Seeing the creativity and skill of female tattoo artists like Baishali and Priyanka motivated me to pursue this art form,” she says.
With a blend of determination and enthusiasm, Arpita is eager to make her presence felt in the burgeoning tattoo scene of Bhubaneswar. She adds, “I have never seen female tattoo artists, but when I came to Skivas and saw Baishali and Priyanka, I realized that women are also entering this field and doing very well.”
Despite facing challenges and skepticism from some quarters, these women tattoo artists are determined to defy stereotypes and pave their own paths in the industry. With their talent, passion, and dedication, they are not only challenging perceptions but also inspiring a new generation of artists to follow their dreams, one stroke at a time.