NİMET ARIKAN

I describe myself as an anarchist, feminist and nature and animal activist. Solidarity and being collectively together and the idea that another world is possible always gives me strength. I strongly believe that the personal achievements I have made so far are based on this approach.

Of course, the genetic talent I have for painting is also another factor that has had a strong effect on my success. Because I would not have begun making tattoos if I did not have any talent and familiarity about it.

My story began in 2000 by renting a little shop in Avsa Island to sell books and accessories. Back then, there were no more than 10 tattoo artists in Turkey. I was aware that there were only 3 or 4 tattoo artists in Istanbul in those days. I took my first steps with temporary tattoos and permanent make up. But shortly after that I realised that what I wanted to do was only permanent tattoos. By being engaged with permanent tattoos, the tattoo artists would constantly test their limits, take risks, and compete with themselves to do their best. Without a doubt there is also a secret rivalry among colleagues, but it was rather a positive rivalry that really got me excited. My jealousy has always been in a positive direction, in the sphere of solidarity and cooperation.

I have had studios in Avsa Island, Fethiye Oludeniz, Nisantasi and Besiktas in chronological order.

Afterwards, I followed international tattoo conventions and carried my experience with me abroad by being a participant in these international tattoo conventions. I was a participant in important conventions in various countries, such as Germany, Netherlands, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Egypt, South Africa, Thailand and Vietnam. In addition, I was the first woman tattoo artists from Turkey that participated in certain conventions; ‘Dutch Ladies Tattoo Convention 2014’ in Harlem, Holland and also ‘Lady Ink Days 2017’ in Berlin, Germany.

I moved to Johannesburg, South Africa in 2016. In South Africa, particularly The Soweto Tattoo Convention greatly contributed to my experience on working black skin.

In 2017 my book ‘Rebellion on Skin’ which researched tattoos on imprisoned women was published. The main styles I enjoy to work in are black shadowed realistic and watercolour but, in addition to these, I have experience with many other styles.

Tattoo art is sometimes directly related to harmony between the tattoo artist; one who makes the tattoo and the people who are getting the tattoo on their bodies. Therefore, it’s beneficial to have information about the style, methods, and character of the tattoo artist before you get a tattoo. The right harmony between the customer and the tattoo artist has a direct affect on the quality of the tattoo you will have. Lastly, I want to add that we carry on our works as Amazon Dövme in a studio run by myself and my husband Jonathan Payn in Besiktas, Istanbul.