June 6, 2024
Imani K Brown
Executive Director
Black Tattoo Anthology
Washington, DC
Black Tattoo Anthologya stands as a beacon of empowerment and economic transformation within the realm of creativity and culture. As a Black-owned, woman-led non-profit - forged by a community of creatives, entrepreneurs and philanthropists - we are deeply rooted in our mission to uplift Black creatives and entrepreneurs, recognizing the systemic barriers they face in order to effectively activate a theory of change. Our organization’s theory of change architecture is a multifaceted approach, which is why BTA is built upon three pillars: artistry, entrepreneurship, and cultural/historical preservation. At the heart of our endeavor lies a commitment to providing comprehensive support to Black creatives and entrepreneurs. Through collective, social, and digital media marketing strategies, we equip individuals with the tools they need to thrive economically, irrespective of their background or resources. Our ethos centers on redefining equity in entrepreneurship, carving out spaces where diverse voices are not only welcomed but celebrated. Together, we uncover the unique challenges faced by Black creatives in accessing resources and opportunities, discuss tokenism affecting their credibility, and challenge discrepancies in grant access due to racial biases in order to create our own table rather than force a seat at someone else’s table.
Our journey is deeply personal. “A seat at the table” refers to the idea of having representation and a voice in decision-making processes. When I was an apprentice, I vividly recall a white man telling me ‘NO.’ I approached a white tattoo artist, and owner, in hopes of receiving training while also getting inked, only to be told verbatim that he “would not teach a Black person, let alone a woman” how to tattoo. This rejection fueled my determination to seek a welcoming community that would teach, accept, and value my talents, experiences, and perspectives at the highest regard. It was through the guidance of my Tattoo Master - who at the time was reducing wealth disparities to achieve economic justice by creating his own table - that I found my voice and purpose. Now as an advocate, Isese practitioner, master tattoo artist, Black economics fangirl, and multi-hyphenate creative, what was once anger and frustration has now blossomed into a disruptive platform that organizes and amplifies traditionally marginalized voices in creative and culture industries through documenting effective dialogue, immersive cultural exchange events, and empowering lucrative, transferable skills that serves as a pointed collective shaping a brighter economic future that presses the culture forward. Black Tattoo Anthology is a testament to the transformative power of resilience and solidarity.
Central to our mission is The Vocation, a pioneering initiative aimed at bridging the gap between aspiration and opportunity. The Vocation is a gold-standard B-school and tattoo apprenticeship program for economically disadvantaged and returning young adults who desire to access an experience in a way that builds, expands, exchanges, and leverages their creativity into a lucrative and sustainable business through equitable entrepreneurship. By offering scholarships, we aim to cultivate a new generation of tattoo artists and entrepreneurs that provides a lifeline to those grappling with unemployment and economic instability. This multi-year minority business development and tattoo program helps level the playing field to lessen the tattoos artist diversity gap, provide a strong supportive start to young adults in impacted low-socioeconomic areas, merging the past, present, and future that helps young Black creative identify tattoo as a viable trade for building generational wealth. Through strategic investments and partnerships, we are paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our organizational goals; it is a testament to our unwavering belief in the potential of every individual we serve. With your support, we can continue to empower and uplift marginalized voices, forging a brighter and more equitable tomorrow for all.
For a pitch deck, budget proposal, ways to support, or any further elaboration of our needs, please forward communication to create@blacktattooanthology.com. I am looking forward to changing history with you.
Sincerely,
Imani K. Brown
Executive Director
Black Tattoo Anthology
www.blacktattooanthology.com
