Background and Early Life

I am Mini Patankar, and my journey into the world of art and tattooing began in Rajasthan, where I was born into a family of renowned artists. My grandfather, mother, and father were all celebrated figures in the local art scene, creating an environment rich in creativity and artistic expression. Growing up surrounded by sculptures, paintings, and crafts, my passion for drawing and painting was nurtured from a young age. I often accompanied my mother to art exhibitions, witnessing firsthand the dedication and skill required to succeed in the arts.

Educational Pursuits and Early Career

After completing my 12th grade with a focus on Fine Arts, I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art. I also excelled in my elementary and IGD exams in painting. Seeking to expand my horizons, I moved to Mumbai in 2004, driven by the ambition to find a job in the creative field. In Mumbai, I began my career as an illustrator for newspapers and magazines. Soon after, I joined a company named Carl Zeis as a visual merchandiser, where I trained MBA students in merchandising. Despite finding the work enjoyable, it didn’t fully satisfy my creative aspirations.

Transition to Tattoo Artistry

My artistic journey took a transformative turn in 2006 when I discovered the world of tattooing. Inspired by the TV series ‘LA Ink’ and admiring the work of Kat Von D, I was drawn to the unique challenges and thrills of creating permanent art on the human body. At a time when there were very few female tattoo artists in India, I faced significant obstacles but was undeterred. My natural talent, combined with my ability to learn by observing other tattoo artists, allowed me to master the art of tattooing. Overcoming the high costs and competitive nature of Mumbai, I persevered through hard work and patience, establishing myself as a respected artist in the industry.

Achievements and Styles

Throughout my 17-18 year career, I have become known for my versatility and expertise in various tattoo styles, including black and grey portraits, old school tattoos, sleeves, and vintage designs. I take pride in customizing each piece to meet my clients’ unique needs. I am also a cover-up expert, with memorable projects such as transforming an old tattoo of a phoenix into a warrior-like depiction of the Indian mythological figure Hanuman for an army officer, and fixing a tiger tattoo for Bollywood celebrity & fitness Trainer— Rahul Bhatt.

Paramedical Tattooing

In addition to artistic tattoos, I have made significant strides in the niche field of paramedical tattooing. Through extensive research and self-training, I specialize in covering scars, stretch marks, and birthmarks, as well as enhancing permanent body art such as eyebrows, lip colors, and eyeliner. One of my most rewarding specialties is vitiligo camouflage. I have dedicated a substantial amount of time to studying skin pigments and understanding the unique challenges faced by those with vitiligo. 

It makes me very proud and happy to see many of my clients, who once struggled with self-esteem issues due to their vitiligo, experience significant improvements in their lives after their white patches are expertly camouflaged. Seeing them regain their confidence and even hearing stories of clients feeling more comfortable and accepted, such as being able to get married without the fear of judgment, brings immense satisfaction to my work.

My work in this area is not just about the technical application of pigment but also involves a deep understanding of the mental and emotional trauma associated with vitiligo. I have spent countless hours consulting with my clients, learning about their experiences and the psychological impact of their condition. This empathetic approach ensures that I can provide a service that not only enhances their appearance but also positively affects their overall well-being.

Recognition and Awards

My talent and dedication have not gone unnoticed. I have been featured in numerous newspapers and magazines, including Hindustan Times, Times Now, DNA, and Style Speak. I was part of the ‘7 Great’ initiative in Navi Mumbai and have won several awards, including the Silver Star Award at an exhibition organized by Hotel Grand Hyatt and the Best Female Tattoo Artist award in Delhi. Additionally, I have judged various events, such as fashion shows and art workshops.

Philosophy and Future Plans

For me, tattooing and fine arts go hand in hand. I believe that creating custom designs for tattoos keeps my fine art skills active. I continue to paint and pursue my creative interests whenever possible. Looking ahead, I aim to achieve more flawless tattooing skills and create larger, customized pieces to enhance my portfolio. I aspire to work in various tattoo styles and continuously improve my craft. In the realm of paramedical tattooing, I plan to conduct further research and eventually start my own product line, developing a brand of pigments to achieve the best results for paramedical tattoo procedures.

Client Relationships and Studio Vision

My studio, Witch Art Tattoos, is a trusted brand in Navi Mumbai. My extensive clientele, built over the years, is a testament to my skill and the trust my clients place in my work. I emphasize the importance of understanding my clients’ needs and customizing designs to create the best possible tattoos. My success is further highlighted by my ability to overcome societal taboos and challenges, proving that females can excel in the tattoo industry.

Advice to Aspiring Artists

I advise aspiring tattoo artists, especially women, to learn the art properly from experienced mentors and develop business skills to run a studio. I encourage them to persevere through challenges and societal expectations, just as I did, to achieve their goals in the tattoo industry.

My journey from a creative family in Rajasthan to becoming a celebrated tattoo artist in Mumbai is a story of passion, perseverance, and continuous learning. My contributions to the tattoo and paramedical tattooing fields, along with my recognition and awards, make me a true trailblazer in the industry.