Freshly Inked Interview with Oba Jackson

Freshly Inked IWhat’s one word that describes you? 

Black. I love everything about it. Before anything else, it’s how I primarily identify myself and it’s what I am, unapologetically. 

How long have you been tattooing?

I’ve been tattooing for three years after apprenticing for eighteen months.

Have you always been interested in tattooing?

No. Growing up as an artist, I was constantly asked if that was where my talent was leading. In all honesty, back then I couldn’t stand the needles, bloodshed, etc. It just wasn’t as appealing as an outlet to me as a young artist. Eventually, it became apparent that tattooing was always going to be hanging onto me until I embraced it fully as part of my repertoire.  

What job did you do before becoming a tattoo artist?

Prior to tattooing, I was a private dancer. A dancer for money. After that,I did visual styling for a large luxury department store. 

Where do you currently tattoo?

I own my own business, PUSH Tattoo Studio in Wilmington, DE. 

What style do you focus on?

Mainly black and grey. I’m known for my portrait work, mostly with ethnically diverse subjects. 

What was your experience like on Ink Master?

It was challenging, to say the least. It’s a totally different environment and no matter how much you think you’re ready for it, it’s impossible to prepare for, to say it’s stressful is an understatement. The stress literally had an adverse effect on my health and caused me to exit the show early.

Did you know right away you wanted to do it or were you nervous about going on tv?

I absolutely wanted to do it! I’m pretty confident in my skill level, plus it would give me a chance to show the world my outfits. Sadly, that opportunity got cut short. I had so many more that didn’t see the light of day. Here’s a hint, one rhymed with Heather Lumpsuit.

What’s your advice for other artists who want to participate on the show?

If you think you’re ready, you’re not. Just focus on having fun, always being yourself, and staying true to your talent. 

Any messages to our readers?

To all the black readers and artists; look around you: if you are the only brown face you see, it’s your job to get another person like you to where you are. There’s a complete and total lack of representation in this industry.

nterview with Oba Jackson