Many tattoo artists already do a significant amount of charity work. Though they aren't looking for anything in return, Inked for Peace would like to make certain you are properly thanked. And for those tattoo artists who have yet to discover ways to be charitable, Inked for Peace is a solution, but it won't be open to everyone. We can't offer this program to everyone because it wouldn't come with as much prestige. We'll give you the detailed pitch next, but essentially, if you're a tattoo artist or parlor, you need to approach us and express your interest. We'll rarely go to you requesting your participation, maybe only in remote locations that have yet to hear about us, but that will become less-and-less likely as time goes on.
Think about it this way, Inked for Peace is bridging two very different industries, which have traditionally been mutually exclusive in most minds due to impressions surrounding tattoos and peace. We're breaking down stereotypes and opening the floodgates between the two markets. That fact alone presents an increased consumer base for both sides, but when you consider our business model, it is clear joining the Inked for Peace community is mutually beneficial for all involved. The short and skinny of our model is this: because we are an international nonprofit, with far more demand than you typical parlor, we can pass savings on to you, in exchange for volunteering your time and talents.
Now the question you're probably asking is, "How often do I have to volunteer?" Well, because we're just starting out, that's difficult to say, but we can say this much for certain: we will always work with you to ensure you WANT to stay with us. If you feel the perks aren't worth the effort, we'll find a way to throttle demand or find other incentives for your participation. To be clear, what we want most for each artist/parlor is increased traffic at your stores. That's why our target market are individuals who are on the fence about getting a tattoo; many of them want to break away from the stereotypical tattoos. We're aiming to bring more people into the tattoo industry and it's up to you to keep them there. Let's go ahead and break this down a bit more just in case there are lingering doubts.
You would voluntarily tattoo one of our flash designs, though the artist is able to stylize it, so long as the concept remains. The stipulations are that it be no bigger than 5in x 5in and no smaller than 3in x 3in. It shouldn’t take anymore than 6 hours time, including drawing up the stencil. (Please read the Artists section of the terms and conditions for details surrounding your volunteerism.)
Inked for Peace will showcase a particular artists’ work and their host parlor on our website and social media accounts to an international audience. This could be quite useful for someone who doesn’t mind doing commissioned work to be shipped out or to simply gain prominence internationally.
Inked for Peace will send you merchandise (we’d work with you on how best to display it), which you would sell at a commission in your favor. The exact split will have to be worked out later, but it will be at least 60/40. The exact split will have to be confirmed by the eventual Board of Directors.
Inked for Peace will sell you tattoo supplies at a steep discount. This figure will also have to be worked out later, but considering we’ll be an international company with far more demand than one parlor, the discount should be significant.
Inked for Peace will host festivals as often as possible in cities around the world. Auckland will certainly be a frequented location. You would be able to set up a booth, sell your merchandise and attract more clients. The festival would be geared towards families and have music, food, games, etc.
Let's say there are 50 tattoo parlors in your typical city. Even at our peak we're not likely to get 50 requests for tattoos per month in one city and even if we did get that or more, we'd spread them out over time. Our requestors are getting something for free, after all, so they will understand. But in this scenario, only one artist from each parlor would need to "donate" 4-6 hours to Inked for Peace and in return, we'll give their entire parlor exposure in the spaces below, in our books, and at our festivals. Not-to-mention, even if there are no requests near you in a month, you still get to keep a percentage of the merchandise sales from your store. Plus, you'll still get the discounts on tattoo supplies. Keep in mind, we may ask you to help crowdsource a design or two, but again, we'll work together to find a balance.
What do you think? Interested? If so, please fill out the first form on the "Contact" page, making certain to type "Participating Artist/Parlor" in the subject line. Let us know where you are located, give us a link to your preferred online outlet (website or social media), and a point of contact. Please keep in mind, if you exude an air of violence, for instance, if your parlor name is "Will Kill for Ink" or if you specialize in gruesome designs, we're likely going to have a conflict of interest. We don't want to turn anyone away, but you may find we've reserved a spot for a more like-minded parlor, such as, "Keep Calm, Ink On." Regardless, hope to hear from you!
