Many people in America have misconceptions about African Americans and tattoos. Some look at our body art as odd or eccentric. Others see all of the emcees becoming more “tatted up” as a popularity thing. This is partially true. However, many of us aren’t aware of the historical value of Africa Americans and their place in tattoo art. Color Outside The Lines has become the essential visual to promote the wealth of knowledge and culture behind African Americans and tattoos.

 

Much of the racial dividing lines had to become blurred in order for African American tattooing to even become commonplace. The documentary makes reference to Jacci Gresham, the premiere female African American tattoo artist that pretty much is the queen of the culture. Also, reference to Julia, the original owner of West End tattoo, is shown to give understanding of the tattoo culture in Atlanta. Julia is responsible for the inspiration and training of many African American artists in Atlanta. The polarizing issue with her is that she is Caucasian. This kept her stuck in the middle: one side said she was a traitor while the other thought she was an outcast. Thus, in order for the culture to flourish, many racial barriers had to become evaporated.

 

Before flourishing, though, many African Americans had to destroy stereotypes. Many white people thought that African Americans couldn’t do any dynamic designs. In fact, African American tattoo artists are a dynamic bunch that finds their influences from tribal symbols to pop art to even the love of nature. In addition, many white tattoo artists had to realize that African American skin deserved special techniques to make them vibrant and lively. Stereotypically speaking, African Americans and Caucasians had to toss away mentalities that held the body art back.

 

One thing that is universal is the lack of professionalism that much of the artwork is being received. Many artists shun the idea of “tattoo parties” and “scratchers” promoting their cheap and dangerous work. Instead of making sure they are professional, they “hustle” people by doing tattoos in their houses and such. Yet, many feel this is the natural path that artists take. But artists are trained on a serious level before they ever touch a tattoo gun. In short, this documentary unleashes information to help customers and artists alike to be aware of how it should be done.

 

 

In conclusion, Color Outside The Lines is a documentary that deserves worldwide praise and historical reference. Many people across this planet of ours need to bear witness to the greatness that is African American tattoo art. They need to understand that this artwork’s greatness is as permanent as the art itself. Historically, this should disprove any notions that African Americans are not responsible for great pieces of artwork, whether the canvas is made from paper or body parts. Essentially, this movie should prove to be the motivation to mitigate the minute mentalities promoting stereotypes against the importance of African American tattooing.

 

Check out the trailer below: