The tattoo industry is without a doubt male-dominated. Judging by the ratio of men and women contestants, Ink Master is reflective of this fact. Before this season, the most notable female contestant, Season Two's runner up, Sarah Miller, proved that it's time to shatter the glass ceiling. Finally in Season Eight, women are running the show.
Kelly Doty, Nikki Simpson, Ryan Ashley Malarkey and Gia Rose formed the strongest alliance and are (literally) giving the men a run for their money, strategically playing the game and gaining the upper hand each week, despite what the boys try to throw their way. The season theme may be Peck vs Núñez, but in reality, it's this fierce foursome vs the industry.
They are not playing "the vagina card." These women are a handful of the most talented contestants on the show and Kelly, Nikki and Ryan have a 60 percent chance of reaching their goal: having the first female Ink Master. If you've been keeping up with the show or know about the industry, you can understand why.
Contestants on the show tend to become heated due to the nature of the competition and the frequent arguments each episode. Arguments the females face often take a sexist turn. Like when Boneface flipped an argument in to Nikki's tattooing in to her age and appearance. Or when Sketchy Lawyer believed they were playing "the vagina card" when they talked about discrimination they've faced.
The fact that Kelly Doty, who is one of the most acclaimed new school artists, was denied tattooing a client simply because of her sex is heartbreaking. What's worse is that it's not an uncommon thing for women tattooists to experience. It's also not uncommon for women tattooists to be harassed in their workplace, especially as apprentices. That's why the goal of having a female Ink Master winner is so important and no matter which of the the three take the title, it couldn't go on a more deserving woman. They're all amazingly talented artists and great role models for women and girls everywhere.
The Salem, M.A. native and owner of Helheim Gallery, Kelly, proved that an Ink Master can still be a nice person and "destroy everybody in your path." With her spooky illustrative signature style, she proved that she has what it takes to be a master by showing her tattoo versatility all while turning her OCD in to a strength with her incredible organization and detail.
Oliver was smart to pick Ryan first for his team. The Strange and Unusual Odities Parlor owner is going in to just her fifth year of tattooing but has taken on and surpassed tattooers in the competition with decades of experience over her! From the beginning, she was motivated and excited to represent women in the industry and everywhere. Playing with integrity and sheer determination takes her closer and closer to her goals.
From the first day of the competition, Nikki made it clear that she's a force to be reckoned with. She showed that the harshness of the industry made her stronger as she took out players and gained more and more momentum in her tattooing throughout the competition. If she's handing out the skulls, you can safely bet the boys are sweating.
With these three in the final five, the odds of the first female Ink Master are looking good.
