Nigerian-Austrian Tattoo Artist Emmanuel Item Connects Culture Through Ink
Emmanuel Item, a tattoo artist of Nigerian and Austrian descent, has been making waves in the art world. With a unique blend of traditional Nigerian designs and modern tattoo culture, Item's work is more than just ink on skin. It's a living archive of cultural identity.
Item's journey began when he was inspired by a band member's Hindu tattoo of Ganesha, the elephant deity. He started tattooing in Vienna, where he was first exposed to tattoo culture while playing guitar in a heavy metal band. His fascination with body art led him to explore its origins, which connected him to his Nigerian roots through Uli and Nsibidi designs.
Uli, a traditional body art form consisting of curves, lines, and abstract forms, is typically created by women using plant dye. Nsibidi, on the other hand, is a writing system that inspired a language in the movie 'Black Panther'. Both art forms have deeply influenced Item's work, leading him to tattoo over 500 people with designs inspired by his Nigerian heritage.
Item's art is not just about aesthetics; it's about connection. His tattoos help people of African heritage connect to their roots, serving as a tangible link to their cultural identity. Item has created almost 100 designs of his own and plans to start a hub in Vienna for cultural connection through art. His annual visits to his ancestral village in Nigeria ensure that his art remains rooted in tradition, continually learning and evolving.
Emmanuel Item's artist residency in Vienna in November 2025, supported by an organization promoting collaborative work among BIPOC artists, is a testament to his unique contribution to the art world. His work is not just about ink on skin; it's about identity, connection, and cultural preservation. With over 500 people tattooed and almost 100 designs created, Item's impact on the tattoo culture is undeniable. His plans to start a cultural hub in Vienna further cement his commitment to keeping these traditions alive.
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