Herstory: Nigerian Women Founders is a 21 Magazine original series launched in March 2024 as a tribute to Women’s History Month. This captivating series delves into profound interviews with Nigerian women who have fearlessly founded brands and companies within the dynamic landscape of our economy. Through compelling narratives and insightful conversations, we illuminate the remarkable journeys, challenges overcome, and triumphant successes of these visionary leaders. Join us as we showcase the resilience, innovation, and impact of Nigerian women in shaping our shared future.
I’m not entirely sure when or how it started, but I’ve always had a deep, almost obsessive love for tattoos. I always knew I was an empty canvas, waiting to be splattered with art. So, if you ask me when I knew I would get them, I’m not sure how I would answer that. I have always known. I just had to wait until I was old and financially independent enough. I knew my father and extended family would be on my case, but honestly, I couldn’t care less. I knew they’d give me hell, but I also knew they’d eventually rest. It’s not like they can peel it off my skin. Besides, ‘my body, my choice‘.
Fast forward, I’m finally over 18 and have some spare cash, so I call my friend, Jay, with whom I’d planned to get tattoos for a few years. He came through and said to meet up. The day we went to the tattoo parlour, Jay got his first so I could build up some courage. Then I got mine. In all, it was an okay experience. Two or three years later, after craving more tattoos, I came across someone called Lazy Artist on Instagram. The tattoos on the page were very clean. I was impressed and intrigued by the artist. When I found out it was a woman, my excitement doubled.
I went to a women’s festival called Hertitude on May 27, 2023, with the intention of getting tatted by her. However, I arrived very late. Her booth’s lineup was unending, so I opted to try the second artist at the festival. Aimein was focused, friendly and very good at what she did. Everyone got small and beautiful tattoos. At some point, there were so many of us, her friend, another tattoo artist Hillary, inked me. I got a little tattoo on my wrist. I had forgotten how much it hurt, but she was gentle and tried to make me laugh. I was happy but couldn’t get the Lazy Artist out of my mind.
I got my next tattoos the month after, a few days before my birthday. On the day itself, I was so tired that my partner and I took our time getting to the tattoo parlour. We didn’t expect what we saw. It was a small bungalow riddled with graffiti, and I was immediately in love. When we got in, she asked us to sit and get comfortable while she set up. She asked if I’d gotten tattoos before and if I had any questions or worries. Even though I wasn’t exactly new to this, I did have worries, and she tried to assuage them while being completely honest about pain points. All three of us also had a little kiki, and I like to think we bonded. Her patience and kindness were extremely appreciated. I loved my tattoos and my experience.
That’s how I met who I now consider my tattoo artist. She transformed my experience and opened my eyes to the incredible work women are doing in the tattoo industry. Lazy Artist is more than just a tattoo artist; she’s an inspiration and a trailblazer. I am proud to present her story.
Who is the Lazy Artist?
I am Jera Chiziebube, a 25-year-old woman from Port Harcourt, Rivers State. As the fifth of eight siblings, my interest in tattooing was almost inevitable. Growing up, I watched my older siblings get tattoos, piercings, and all sorts of body art. I really liked the tattoos, but what intrigued me the most was when I accompanied my sister to her tattoo session. Just watching the entire process had me transfixed, and I started thinking that maybe this was something I could do.
With my history in art—I paint, draw, and sculpt—I felt confident that I could achieve this dream. I was certain I was meant for this, and so far, my success has proven me right. When I started, my fear was the business’s longevity because most people who know me always said, “I never thought Jera was someone to run a business.” It was fair. I didn’t think I was either, but it feels good to excel at something I love.
Although questions like, “Will people like my work? Will they see me as worthy enough to get tattooed by me?” plagued my mind, I was also scared of the male dominance in tattooing worldwide.
“You know, there’s always this mentality that she’s a woman, so she’ll not be able to do it as well.”
Though these things had me worried and scared for the business in general, it doesn’t seem to be a major problem anymore because my work now speaks for itself.
As a woman tattoo artist, I feel the quality of my work is making significant strides. It’s pushing away the belief that women can’t excel in this industry. One standout moment was when a brand reached out to make me their in-house tattoo artist for an event. That experience boosted my confidence and made me feel like my work is valued. I’ve also had other tattoo artists, who are men, reach out to me and say, “Oh, my God, you’re actually doing so good for yourself. Your pieces are actually quite neat.” Though it can be a little patronizing, I feel that, in a way, this contributes to the inclusion or acceptance of women tattoo artists. The more I work and design, the better and better I get. That is slowly reducing that stereotype.
I would say that each tattoo artist has a unique style and their own way of drawing. From what people have told me and what I’ve observed, the neatness and thickness of my lines and how they heal very smoothly set me apart. Essentially, the quality of my work separates me from others. Including the atmosphere I create in my studio. I make it very conducive and homely, making you feel safe during your session, whether you’re male, female or somewhere in between.
I’ve always known that when I was ready to plunge into the tattoo business, I was going to do this on my own because I never wanted to work under anyone. When I started my tattoo journey, I worked a 9 to 5 remotely. The experience was good, but there were times when I felt unappreciated. So, I decided I was going to start on my own. Additionally, I plan to take people under my wing in the future. I’m looking at starting training in August 2024.
Ultraverse Studios and Lazy Artist
I used to share a studio space with another artist focused on visual art—paintings and drawings. I’m pretty sure that was the first studio you visited. As my client base grew, I realized I needed a space where everyone could feel truly comfortable and have their moment. It wasn’t that the old space wasn’t safe, I just wanted a setting where clients could relax fully, knowing they had privacy. With the layout of the new studio, even if there are others around, the privacy curtain ensures a personal space for each session.
I needed to expand into a place that’s mine. The major challenge was finding a location because we all know the price of things in Lagos and how inflation has skyrocketed almost everything. Additionally, there was the added complication of landlords refusing to rent to single women. But eventually, I found a spot that works perfectly.
I genuinely love what I do and treasure the moments when clients feel at ease and open up during their sessions. They just share things they may be going through, and I advise them where I can. It’s heartwarming to be a listening ear and offer advice when needed. You know, there’s this saying that tattoos are therapy, and I believe it wholeheartedly.
I’ve named my studio Ultraverse Studio. I chose this name because I see myself branching into a broader creative space. I wanted a name that would cover all my plans. The “Lazy Artist” is my tattoo personality, and considering how I started, it feels like the perfect fit for this journey.
The Origin of Tattooing
If you try googling the history of tattoos, you will find many different stories with various origins. From Ötzi the Iceman Tattoos—3300 BCE, Ancient Egyptian Tattoos—2000 BCE, Samoan Pe’a and Malu—Over 2,000 years old, Ancient Nsibidi Tattoos—2000 BCE, Polynesian Tattoos (Maori Tā Moko)—over 1,000 years ago, Japanese Irezumi—10,000 BCE (Jomon period) to Native American Tattoos which are over a thousand years old and a lot more.
Tattooing is an ancient art form with a rich history spanning thousands of years and diverse cultures. Early evidence of tattoos dates back to the Neolithic era, with mummies discovered sporting tattoos as far back as 4000 B.C. These early tattoos often had spiritual or protective meanings, as seen in various ancient civilizations like Egypt and the indigenous tribes of the Americas.
In Africa, tattoos have also held significant cultural importance. Tattoos in African cultures often symbolize rites of passage, social status, tribal affiliation, and spiritual beliefs. Specifically in West Africa, traditional tattooing practices include scarification and body marking, which are still prevalent in some communities today, like the Igbo and Yoruba people, amongst others.
Focusing on Nigeria, tattoos have deep cultural roots, particularly in using Nsibidi symbols among the Igbo and Efik people. Nsibidi is a system of symbols indigenous to what is now southeastern Nigeria. These symbols were used in communication and are believed to carry deep esoteric and mystical meanings. In the context of tattoos, Nsibidi symbols are often inscribed on the body to convey messages of identity, power, and spirituality.
Nsibidi tattoos are more than just body art; they are a form of storytelling and a repository of cultural heritage. This practice highlights the deep connection between body art and cultural expression in Nigeria, showcasing how tattoos can be both a personal and communal narrative, reflecting the intricate tapestry of African traditions and beliefs.
“That’s the thing. The history of tattoos in Nigeria is written on sand. It’s not very concrete because the tattoo artists in Nigeria, didn’t go out of their way to document. We’re not really trying to mark it down on solid paper. You know how abroad or in foreign countries, there’s a whole board under the health regulation for tattoos and piercings and all of that. We don’t have that in Nigeria and I think it’s because tattoos still aren’t the most accepted art. It’s just recently that more people are opening up to the idea of them. I feel like what we need to do as a tattoo community is try to write the history down. Try to make history. Put information out there that people can hold on to and have for years to come.
I’m trying to open a creative studio. A proper tattoo parlour where there’ll be multiple tattoo artists in there. You can just walk in and book a session. I was also a part of the planning committee for the Lagos Tattoo Convention. These are the things we’re trying to do to boost the tattoo culture. I also plan on hosting a women’s tattoo training boot camp to teach and empower women artists. I’m looking at the BootCamp taking place in September or the end of the year.”
Lazy Artist
Here are ten types of Indigenous tattoos from some of the first recorded histories of tattooing, along with their origins and approximate years. The years provided indicate when these tattoo practices were known to have existed based on archaeological findings, historical records, or cultural documentation.
Ötzi the Iceman Tattoos
- Origin: Central Europe (Italian-Austrian Alps)
- Year: Around 3300 BCE
- Description: Ötzi the Iceman had 61 tattoos consisting of simple dots and lines. These tattoos were discovered on his mummified body found in the Alps in 1991.
Ancient Egyptian Tattoos
- Origin: Egypt
- Year: Around 2000 BCE
- Description: Tattoos were found on female mummies, such as Amunet, a priestess of Hathor. These tattoos were discovered during archaeological excavations of ancient Egyptian burial sites.
Ancient Nsibidi Tattoos
- Origin: Southeastern Nigeria
- Year: At least several centuries old, with some claims tracing back to around 2000 years ago.
- Description: Nsibidi tattoos, part of an ancient ideographic and logographic script, date back to around 2000 BCE. These symbols were used by various ethnic groups, including the Ekpe society, for communication, rituals, and art. Documented by early explorers, Nsibidi tattoos continue to hold cultural significance among the indigenous communities in the region.
Samoan Pe’a and Malu
- Origin: Samoa
- Year: Over 2,000 years old
- Description: The tradition of Pe’a (for men) and Malu (for women) tattoos dates back to ancient Samoa. This practice has been passed down through generations and documented by early European explorers.
Polynesian Tattoos (Maori Tā Moko)
- Origin: New Zealand (Maori culture)
- Year: Dating back to ancient Polynesia, over 1,000 years ago
- Description: Tā moko, the Maori form of tattooing, has a history that predates European contact. It was documented extensively by Captain Cook and other early explorers in the 18th century.
Japanese Irezumi
- Origin: Japan
- Year: Dates back to at least 10,000 BCE (Jomon period)
- Description: Early forms of Irezumi have been found on clay figurines from the Jomon period. The practice was also documented in the Edo period when tattoos became associated with the Yakuza.
Native American Tattoos
- Origin: Various tribes across North America
- Year: Over 1,000 years old
- Description: Native American tattoos have been found on archaeological remains and documented by early European settlers. Each tribe had its unique tattoo traditions and designs.
Inuit Tattoos (Tunniit)
- Origin: Arctic regions (Inuit culture)
- Year: At least 3,500 years old
- Description: Inuit tattoos have been found on ancient mummified remains and documented by early explorers and anthropologists.
Ancient Thai Sak Yant Tattoos
- Origin: Thailand
- Year: Dating back to the Khmer Empire (around the 9th century)
- Description: Sak Yant tattoos have a long history rooted in the Khmer Empire. They were documented in ancient scripts and through the continuation of the practice in Buddhist temples.
Celtic and Pictish Tattoos
- Origin: British Isles (Celtic and Pictish tribes)
- Year: At least 700 BCE
- Description: Celtic and Pictish tattoos were documented by ancient Roman historians such as Julius Caesar, who noted the body art of these tribes.
Ancient Filipino Batok Tattoos
- Origin: Philippines
- Year: Over 1,000 years old
- Description: Batok tattoos have been part of Filipino culture for over a millennium. They were documented by early Spanish explorers and continue to be practised by Indigenous groups like the Kalinga.
You can’t trace the origin of tattoos to just one nation. For aeons, peoples of the world have used this art form to beautify, empower, communicate, protect and connect. It is an alluring art with a rich culture, and whatever your reason for engaging in this practice, I hope you feel a little proud to be a part of its history.
Learning Tattoo Artistry
To be a very good tattoo artist, you should be able to draw. Sometimes, a client would bring a design, and while you’re executing it, the stencil might wipe off. What happens then? Having the creative skill of drawing allows you to manoeuvre through such situations.
Additionally, when someone wants a custom design, your drawing ability becomes invaluable. When a client says, “I want an original design,” having that skill aids in creating something unique and adds a flavour of individuality that clients appreciate.
My training program is three months long. You’ll start with a two-month studio apprenticeship, followed by one month of studio work. You will only begin working on someone in the third month.
It’s essential to learn about human skin because while fake skins, pig skin, and orange peels are good for practice, they don’t replicate the healing process of human skin. Practising on fake skin doesn’t show if your work will cause a blowout, where the ink spreads. Therefore, you eventually need to practice on human skin. Fortunately, some people are very willing to give up their bodies for practice. You may scar them a little bit, but it’s nothing too scary, medical, or bad.
There’s no fixed or general price range for learning tattoo artistry or even getting tattoos; it varies. Each artist sets their rates. Custom tattoos are priced higher because they require sketching and take more time due to my schedule.
- Start with the Basics: Begin by familiarizing yourself with the fundamentals of tattooing. Understand the equipment, hygiene practices, and different types of inks and needles.
- Training Program: Enroll in a structured training program. For instance, you might start with a three-month course where the first two months are dedicated to studio apprenticeship. During this time, you’ll observe and assist experienced artists.
- Hands-On Practice: In the third month, you’ll transition to working directly with clients. This is when you put your skills to the test, applying everything you’ve learned.
- Master the Skin: It’s crucial to learn about human skin. While practising on fake skins, pig skin, or orange peels is useful, human skin behaves differently. Understanding how it heals and reacts is key to mastering the craft.
- Custom Designs: Develop your drawing skills. Custom tattoos often come with unique designs, and having the ability to sketch and create original artwork adds a special touch.
- Build Your Portfolio: Start building a portfolio of your work. Documenting your designs and completed tattoos will help showcase your skills to potential clients.
- Seek Feedback: Don’t shy away from feedback. Whether from mentors or clients, constructive criticism helps you refine your techniques and improve your artistry.
- Keep Learning: Tattoo artistry is an evolving field. Stay updated with new techniques, trends, and tools to continually enhance your skills.
- Engage with the Community: Connect with other tattoo artists and enthusiasts. Being part of the tattoo community provides support, inspiration, and opportunities for growth.
- Practice with Patience: Remember, mastering tattoo artistry takes time. Be patient with yourself and stay committed to your craft.
Women and Tattooing
My advice for aspiring women tattoo artists is simple: just start. Don’t overthink it—take the plunge.
When I say start, I mean dive into your training, learn the craft, and practice diligently. Remember, you’re working on people’s skin, so it’s crucial to ensure you know what you’re doing and that you’re doing it properly. This isn’t just about following a trend; it’s about making sure this field is truly for you and that you have a solid execution plan.
So get proper training—whether from a professional or through an apprenticeship. Take a course if you can, and then practice, practice, practice. That’s what made me good at what I do. I practised extensively, and fortunately, my brother was willing to be my canvas. Practising on human skin was invaluable and really helped me hone my skills.
Two women artists motivated me to be the very best at what I do: Kat and Donna from Deep Ink Atlanta. They’re on an American show, and both have truly inspired me and boosted my passion for tattooing.
Two Nigerian women artists that I love are Aimien and Hillary. These four women are my top inspirations in the tattoo world.
What Five Tips Can You Give Women Looking to Start a Business in Nigeria?
Choose a Business You’re Passionate About
Make sure the business you start is something you’re truly interested in and enjoy. For example, if you’re starting a cooking business, you should genuinely like cooking and have the necessary skills. It’s important to be engaged and enthusiastic about what you do.
Research the Required Skills
Before starting your business, research the skills needed. Ask yourself: Do I already have these skills? Can I learn them? Are they easy to acquire on my own? Understanding what skills are necessary and assessing your ability to obtain them is a crucial first step.
Avoid Self-Doubt
Don’t let fear of failure hold you back. It’s natural to have doubts, but the key is to start and see how it goes. Don’t down-talk your business or let negative thoughts prevent you from pursuing your goals.
Surround Yourself with a Supportive Community
People say you get the best support from strangers, but I don’t think so. I believe that if you’re surrounded by a good community of friends and family, they will support you. So, put yourself in a positive community of people who will help you out and be there for you.
That’s it!
Each tattoo session is memorable in its own way, but some stand out because they push me beyond my usual focus on line work and simple tattoos. For instance, not long ago, I inked an abstract sleeve that we created from scratch. As the artist, the whole process showed me that I could really push my boundaries and go bigger. It made me realize that I can do anything I put my mind to.
Another standout session was when I did a hyperrealistic eye. I don’t typically do hyper-realism, but my client really challenged me. He said, “I know you can’t do this, and I don’t know why you don’t want to try.” He pushed me to take on the challenge, and once we started, I realized I could actually do it. It came out so well. I was very proud of myself.
Sessions like these make me happy and reinforce my belief that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
When I started this journey, there weren’t really any women tattoo artists in Nigeria for me to look up to. So, being a woman in this industry feels like a pioneer, a symbol for others to see and believe that they can do this too. It’s about showing that a woman can thrive and create something remarkable in this field.
I hope to leave a legacy that challenges the stereotype that only male artists are exceptional. My goal is to encourage more women to join the industry and make it more female-friendly. Being a woman in this space has also benefited my business, as it has created a welcoming environment for women who might feel uncomfortable being tattooed by men. It’s important to prove that, as a female artist, I can be just as skilled and successful as my male counterparts.
Lastly, babies, watch this space and its growth!
Princess: Do you have tattoos?
Lazy Artist: Yes, I do.
Princess: I’ve never seen them. I’ve always been curious.
Lazy Artist: They are very tiny. I wanted to be that artist that doesn’t have tattoos. To be cool like that but with my love for it, I got three. I just did the third one some days ago for my birthday. I also have little dots and crosses, very tiny, all over my body.
Princess: Did you do them yourself?
Lazy Artist: Yes. I did all my ink myself.
Princess: That’s so cool!
