The city of Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is seeing a growing trend among its youth: tattooing. This practice, once reserved for a certain elite or marginalized, is gaining popularity among young Congolese people in search of self-expression and confidence.
Met by Fatshimetrie, a renowned tattoo artist in the capital, shares his experience and vision of this booming phenomenon. He emphasizes that tattooing goes far beyond simple fashion, allowing everyone to regain self-confidence. Sometimes used to hide a scar or highlight a character trait, tattooing becomes a way to appropriate one’s body and reconcile with one’s image.
Fatshimetrie reveals to us that his clientele is diverse, ranging from young people in search of identity to more mature people wishing to mark an important event in their lives. Men, women, young and old come through the doors of his studio, each with their own story and motivation.
Despite the possible difficulties encountered, such as social or family norms, the tattoo artist notes a real craze for this form of body art. The reluctance of yesterday is gradually fading in favor of a growing acceptance and appreciation for tattooing as a means of personal expression.
Thus, in Kinshasa as in other cities in the DRC, tattooing is establishing itself as a cultural trait in full expansion, testifying to societal developments and the individual aspirations of Congolese youth. Fatshimetrie, an ink and skin artist, accompanies this trend with passion and respect, offering each client the opportunity to transform their skin into a true living story.
Ultimately, tattooing, much more than a simple body decoration, represents an act of self-affirmation, an artistic approach and a symbol of individual freedom. It embodies the richness and diversity of Congolese culture, in perpetual evolution and in constant search of authenticity.