Tattoo artists work to stamp out social stereotypes in Egypt
While many Muslims consider tattoos to be impermissible under Islamic law, the art is thriving in Egypt.
In an alley in Cairo’s populous Shubra neighborhood, tattoo artist Osama Ayoub challenges stereotypes by inking people’s bodies in a conservative and religious society that considers body art a taboo.
“Despite social pressure and deeply rooted traditional ideas, I have been running a very successful business so far,” Ayoub told Al-Monitor while tattooing a young woman. “The art is getting more and more popular here,” he added.
Ayoub, who has been tattooing for about 20 years, said he gets two customers every day on average. “Egyptians love art, and tattoos have a very unique artistic side,” the veteran tattoo artist added.
Ayoub, nicknamed “Osos,” was originally a barber. He was working at a barber's shop in Shubra while studying commerce at the same time. Then, he traveled to the United States where he learned tattooing. “I have been lucky to work with many professional tattoo artists who taught me the secret of the practice,” he said.
