While fashion has been SA’s greatest style export, it seems our tattoo aficionados are also gaining the limelight. Sibusiso “Inkboy Que” Cele made waves this week after it was announced he would be joining the cast of international parlour Black Ink Crew.
The 25-year-old, who specialises in realism and cover-ups, was approached by the star of the Black Ink Crew reality show Paul “Puma” Robinson, who was amazed by Inkboy Que’s work on Instagram. Though keen to start working with the crew, Inkboy wants to keep a low profile on the series to give him time to get used to American culture.
Set to join the cast mid-2021, we get Inkboy’s top tattoo tips:
Top trends to look out for
We’ve been getting a lot of roses and angels. In terms of small pieces, people are getting their names or doves inked. Tattoo culture is still growing in SA, so most people will see things on the internet and they’ll ask to get a copy, instead of coming up with their own thing. As an artist I often have to redesign images to make them more interesting.
Dark colours for dark skin tones
I use triple black ink, which is a very dark ink, so if you have a darker skin tone, you can still see the details of your tattoo.
Always avoid water
I’ve had people who are athletes or performers who find their tattoos didn’t heal properly. You have to avoid water and too much moisture over your tattoo at all times for two weeks.
Try baby bum creams for moisture
Vaseline is oily. Your scabs will start feeling more moisturised and then they’ll peel off before the expected time, which leaves spaces in your tattoo that will need to be re-done.
Pick your art carefully
Have your design ready and research what it means and whether it will always mean something to you.
You can follow Inkboy Que on Instagram or Twitter at @inkboy_que.
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