Ep 1. Earn It!

Ink Master season 4 episode 1, titled "Earn It!," kicks off with a new set of contestants ready to prove themselves and earn the title of Ink Master. The show's host, Dave Navarro, introduces the judges: tattoo legends Oliver Peck and Chris Nunez, as well as newcomer, Nikko Hurtado, a renowned portrait tattoo artist.

The first flash challenge is revealed, and the artists are tasked with creating an image using only shading techniques. They have two hours to work on their designs, and the judges will decide which artist has the best application of shading. The challenge is particularly crucial as the top artist will get to assign human canvases for the first elimination challenge.

After evaluating the art, Peck and Nunez select Jason and Halo as the top two contestants. They must now face off in a head-to-head challenge, with the winner receiving the assignment advantage. In the end, Halo wins, allowing him to pick the first canvas and assign the tattoos for all other contestants in the elimination challenge.

The elimination challenge involves creating a Japanese-style tattoo. The contestants have six hours to complete their designs, and they must demonstrate their mastery of traditional Japanese techniques, such as line work, negative space and color application. The judges will be looking for accuracy, artistry, and creativity in choosing the best artwork.

The contestants work under pressure, with many struggling to complete their designs within the given time. Hurtado provides feedback, while Peck and Nunez carry out inspection visits and provide constructive criticism on the artists' technique and progress.

On the day of judgment, the judges evaluate each tattoo in depth, assessing every detail, from line work and shading to color and composition. They discuss the merits and flaws of each artwork and make their final decisions.

In the end, the winning artist earns immunity from elimination in the next round, while the bottom two contestants must undergo a head-to-head showdown. This means each contestant must present a new tattoo design to the judges, who will then decide which artist to keep and who to send home.

The show's format is particularly engaging, as it allows viewers to see the artists' creative process from start to finish. It is fascinating to watch how each artist approaches the same challenge, and how they adapt to the judges' feedback. The show also provides insight into the world of professional tattooing and the different styles and techniques that are used to create striking, meaningful designs.

Overall, Ink Master season 4 episode 1 is an exciting start to the new season, offering a compelling introduction to the contestants, judges, and challenges that lie ahead. Fans of the show can expect more thrilling tattoo designs, intense competition, and surprises throughout the rest of the season.