Being a fan of “Ink Master” since 2012, the reality competition series showcasing talented tattoo artists, I always dreamed of being part of the show. It took six years from my initial cold email to the casting team in 2016 to finally getting Got Tattooed on season 14. Despite my first unanswered email, my determination to experience the competition firsthand never wavered.
In 2018, when “Ink Master” opened online applications, I jumped at the chance. I filled out the form, detailing my desired tattoo style, placement on my body, my longest tattoo session to date, and the number of tattoos I already had. After four years of waiting, in 2022, I received the call that made my dream a reality. I was selected to be a “human canvas” for season 14 of “Ink Master.”
Stepping onto the “Ink Master” Set: Less Drama, More Camaraderie
Before appearing on the show, I had a detailed call with the producers about the tattoo design I envisioned. They gave me the set location and revealed the episode’s challenge: fine-art tattooing. While “Ink Master” showcases incredibly skilled tattoo artists, the reality of letting a complete stranger – whose artistic style and personality were unknown to me – permanently ink my skin was daunting.
Nevertheless, I arrived on set. The human canvases had a designated break room to relax before filming, though interaction with the artists was limited before the cameras rolled. Eventually, I was paired with tattoo artist Holli Marie. We immediately began collaborating and refining my tattoo idea. I was pleasantly surprised by how much input I had in the design, which ultimately became a piece evoking cherished childhood memories and a tribute to Salvador Dalí.
Initially, I wanted the tattoo on my stomach, but Holli Marie and I agreed that my thigh would be a more manageable and less painful area for the six-hour session. Her consideration for my comfort highlighted the crucial artist-canvas connection, even amidst the high-pressure environment of a televised competition.
The filming process was a whirlwind. Cameras and lights were everywhere, and the crew’s dedication to capturing every detail amplified the intensity I usually witness from my living room. However, what truly got my attention was the artists’ genuine enjoyment. Despite the fierce competition portrayed on TV, I witnessed heartwarming moments of artists appreciating each other’s skills and artistry. Contrary to the on-screen drama often associated with unhappy canvases, my entire experience was remarkably comfortable and positive.
Unseen Critiques and Lasting Satisfaction After Getting Tattooed
In each “Ink Master” episode, judges, including renowned tattoo artists Ryan Ashley, Ami James, and Nikko Hurtado in season 14, review photos of each tattoo before deciding which artist will be eliminated. Human canvases typically don’t get to witness these critiques live, so I was left wondering about the judges’ feedback on my tattoo until my episode aired.
As it turned out, my tattoo received mixed reviews. The judges weren’t enthusiastic about the cubes in the design and felt Holli Marie’s lines were slightly imperfect. However, these critiques didn’t diminish my satisfaction. I absolutely love the finished tattoo, and the overall experience of getting tattooed on “Ink Master” was undeniably worth the wait.
For me, the experience transcended the tattoo itself; it was about the unforgettable memories created. From the initial jitters of being on the show to the surprising sensitivity of my thigh during the tattooing process, it was an emotional journey. Being a human canvas on “Ink Master” became an unexpected journey of self-discovery, fostering a deeper appreciation for the incredible artistry and dedication behind every tattoo.
