Today we’d like to introduce you to Niquo (NiquoInk) Smith.
Hi Niquo (NiquoInk), it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m a transgender anime tattoo artist specializing in full color and black & grey tattoos on all skin tones—especially brown skin. I also focus on gender-affirming tattoos and creating a safe, fun, and inclusive space for every client who sits in my chair.
My tattoo journey started over 10 years ago in my apartment. I’d been getting tattooed for a while and had always been an artist, so one day I told myself, ‘I want to do this.’ My sister bought me my first ink set, I picked up a tattoo kit, and the rest was history.
I’m originally from Chicago, raised in Virginia (DMV area), and now based in Dallas, Texas. So you could say I’ve been all over—but my art and career have taken me even further. I have a deep love for anime, cartoons, and pop culture, and now I work out of an anime-focused tattoo shop that reflects that passion. I’ve built my brand around authenticity, representation, and bringing bold ideas to life through ink.
Along the way, I’ve grown not just as an artist, but as a mentor. I now teach artists every day—both in my shop and online—helping them sharpen their skills and build confidence in their craft. Sharing knowledge and building community are just as important to me as creating dope tattoos.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, but every bump pushed me toward where I’m meant to be. Before moving to Dallas, I felt stuck—creatively, personally, and professionally. I knew there was more out there for me, and my girlfriend was a huge part of the push I needed. That move changed everything. I realized that in order for my career to grow, I had to grow too.
I’ve struggled with my identity over the years, but the more I leaned into being my full self, the more doors started opening. Clients began connecting with me on a deeper level, not just for my art, but for the space I create.
Being self-taught also came with challenges. In the beginning, it was hard to find solid information—especially outside the traditional tattoo world. But over time, I came to understand why the knowledge wasn’t always handed out. You have to respect the craft and truly earn your place through passion and consistency. Now that I’m well established, I try to pass that mindset on to the next generation of artists. I want them to appreciate the art form while also having access to the guidance I didn’t have coming up.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in anime, pop culture, and cartoon-style tattoos—bringing vibrant, detailed characters to life on every skin tone. I work in both full color and black & grey. I’m also known for offering gender-affirming tattoos and creating a space where every client feels seen, celebrated, and safe. The vibes in the shop are irreplaceable.
What sets my work apart is more than just the art itself—it’s the experience. I approach every tattoo with intention, from the design process to the energy I bring to the session. I want people to leave my chair feeling empowered, healed, or just hyped about their new piece.
I’m also proud of the way I give back to the tattoo community. I teach artists every day—whether it’s in my shop or through my online platform—helping them grow their technique and confidence. I’ve built a lane where artistry, authenticity, and education meet, and that’s what makes my brand different. I’m not just tattooing—I’m building a movement and a space where people feel like they belong.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I definitely see myself as a risk-taker, but not in the reckless sense. I believe growth only happens when you get uncomfortable—and I’ve had to make a lot of tough calls to get to where I am today.
One of the biggest risks I ever took was moving to Dallas. I left behind everything familiar—the people, the city, the comfort zone—to chase something bigger. It wasn’t just about relocating, it was about betting on myself. I knew that if I wanted to grow as an artist and as a person, I had to make a bold move. And it paid off in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
I’ve also taken risks in how I show up in the tattoo industry. Being a black, transgender artist in the South, openly creating inclusive space, none of that is considered ‘safe’ in traditional business terms. But I took that chance because I believe authenticity is powerful. And honestly, being true to who I am has attracted the kind of clients I actually want to work with and who want to work with me.
To me, risk is necessary. If you’re not risking comfort, you’re probably not moving forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://beacons.ai/niquoink
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niquoink/
Image Credits
All images are created by myself, Niquo Ink.
