Ep 2. The Gloves Are Off

In NY Ink season 1 episode 2, "The Gloves Are Off," viewers are taken on a journey through the lives of the artists and staff at the legendary tattoo shop, Wooster Street Social Club, located in New York City's SoHo neighborhood.

We follow the shop's owner, Ami James, as he deals with the pressures of running a successful business while maintaining healthy relationships with his employees. One of his biggest challenges comes from Yojiro Harada, a talented tattoo artist who has been with the shop since its inception. Yoji struggles with managing his time and dealing with the demands of his clients. Ami confronts Yoji about his work ethic and puts him on probation until he can prove that he's ready to step up and take on more responsibility.

Meanwhile, the other artists in the shop are dealing with their own personal and professional challenges. Jessica Gahring is a talented portrait artist who is struggling to find her own artistic voice. She takes a break from tattooing to work on a painting and receives encouragement from fellow artist Tommy Montoya. Megan Massacre, the resident pin-up girl, is struggling to balance her love life with her career. She receives a surprise visit from her boyfriend and fellow tattoo artist, Chris Torres, who has been away on a tattoo tour.

As the episode continues, viewers are introduced to new clients who are seeking the talents of the Wooster Street Social Club artists. One of the clients is a young woman who has survived cancer and is looking to get a meaningful tattoo to commemorate her strength and resilience. Tommy Montoya takes on the challenge and produces a beautiful, intricate design that showcases the woman's courage.

Another client is a man who wants a tattoo but can't decide on a design. Megan Massacre works with him to develop a concept that is personal and unique, and the man is thrilled with the results.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a sense of the camaraderie and working relationships that exist between the artists at Wooster Street Social Club. The shop is bustling with activity, with clients coming and going and the artists working long hours to create stunning works of art.

In the end, "The Gloves Are Off" is a captivating look into the lives of the tattoo artists and staff at the Wooster Street Social Club. From the personal struggles of the artists to the heartfelt stories of the clients, this episode provides an intimate look at the world of tattooing and the people who are passionate about it.