Black Ink Crew: New York Season 1 Episode 1 Welcome to Harlem, U.S.A.
- January 7, 2013
As the first episode of Black Ink Crew: New York, "Welcome to Harlem, U.S.A." introduces viewers to the bustling world of tattoo artistry in the heart of New York City.
The show follows the lives of the staff at Black Ink, a tattoo shop based in the heart of Harlem. Led by the charismatic owner Ceaser, each artist brings their own unique perspective and talent to the table. From the hot-tempered Dutchess to the charming Puma, the crew is a diverse group of individuals who share a passion for their art.
The episode begins by introducing the viewer to the crew and their relationships with one another. We see Ceaser and Dutchess in a passionate relationship that often spills over into their work, and Puma is shown as the laid-back, affable guy who everyone likes.
The first major story arc of the episode follows the team as they prepare for the grand opening of their new flagship store. Deciding to move the shop to a trendy new location in Harlem, Ceaser and the crew are gearing up for a big party to celebrate the opening of the new location.
However, as the big day approaches, things start to go wrong. The store fixtures don't arrive on time, the shop's website is down, and the team is running behind schedule. Despite these setbacks, Ceaser remains confident that everything will come together in the end.
In addition to the preparations for the opening, we're also introduced to some of the shop's clients. From a woman who wants to get a tattoo to commemorate her father's death to a man who wants to get a tattoo of his girlfriend's name, the shop sees a diverse range of customers come through its doors.
One of the most interesting aspects of the episode is the way it explores the shop's role in the community. Harlem is a historically African American neighborhood, and many of the customers who come to Black Ink feel a strong sense of pride in their community. As one woman says during her tattoo appointment, "This is Harlem. This is us."
Overall, "Welcome to Harlem, U.S.A." is a strong start to the series. It introduces viewers to a cast of colorful characters and sets up some interesting storylines for the future. The episode does a good job of showcasing the artistry and creativity that goes into tattooing, while also exploring the role that a tattoo shop can play in a community.
