The Virginia tattoo artist transforming lives by inking over scars
- Text by Ryan Mcmeekin
Amy Black is a master of illusion. Beginning her artistic career by painting murals and faux finishes for private homes, she now crafts strikingly realistic tattoos, principally for those who have had their bodies changed due to illness or surgery. Whether you’ve undergone a mastectomy as a result of breast cancer or you’ve lost all you hair, Amy is ready and waiting.
Having studied at the Columbus College of Art and Design, where she developed a passion for human anatomy, Amy now employs her talents in a field formally known as ‘nipple and areola repigmentation’, but put more simply she helps people take ownership of their skin once more.
Amy
Whilst her work is principally focused on the reconstruction of anatomically accurate nipples and areolas, Amy is increasingly approached by clients who want to celebrate their scars artistically, demands which have seen Amy draw upon her knowledge of classical art, botany, religion and science.
Amy’s work is not, however, cheap. This was a realisation that back in 2011 prompted her to establish the Pink Ink Fund, an organisation aiming to ease the financial burdens imposed on those wishing for body art.
Paula Haydock and James Callum’s film, Tat for Tit, showcases Amy’s artistic skill, but – as she would no doubt have no other way – the documentary is ultimately focused on her clients. They stand testament to Amy’s selfless and invaluable work, one woman confidently professing “I am beautiful again”, another affirms that Amy’s work is “100% for the person”.
Amy’s mastery of her art is vital in allowing her clients to re-master their bodies.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
Latest on Huck
Is the UK ready for a Kabaddi boom?
Kabaddi, Kabaddi, Kabaddi — Watched by over 280 million in India, the breathless contact sport has repeatedly tried to grip British viewers. Ahead of the Kabaddi World Cup being held in Wolverhampton this month, Kyle MacNeill speaks to the gamechangers laying the groundwork for a grassroots scene.
Written by: Kyle MacNeill
One photographer’s search for her long lost father
Decades apart — Moving to Southern California as a young child, Diana Markosian’s family was torn apart. Finding him years later, her new photobook explores grief, loss and connection.
Written by: Miss Rosen
As DOGE stutters, all that remains is cringe
Department of Gargantuan Egos — With tensions splintering the American right and contemporary rap’s biggest feud continuing to make headlines, newsletter columnist Emma Garland explains how fragile male egos stand at the core of it all.
Written by: Emma Garland
Photo essay special: Despite pre-Carnival anxiety, Mardi Gras 2025 was a joyous release for New Orleans
A city celebrates — Following a horrific New Year’s Day terror attack and forecasts for extreme weather, the Louisiana city’s marquee celebration was pre-marked with doubt. But the festival found a city in a jubilant mood, with TBow Bowden there to capture it.
Written by: Isaac Muk
From his skating past to sculpting present, Arran Gregory revels in the organic
Sensing Earth Space — Having risen to prominence as an affiliate of Wayward Gallery and Slam City Skates, the shredder turned artist creates unique, temporal pieces out of earthly materials. Dorrell Merritt caught up with him to find out more about his creative process.
Written by: Dorrell Merritt
In Bristol, pub singers are keeping an age-old tradition alive
Ballads, backing tracks, beers — Bar closures, karaoke and jukeboxes have eroded a form of live music that was once an evening staple, but on the fringes of the southwest’s biggest city, a committed circuit remains.
Written by: Fred Dodgson