Ep 11. Up in Smoke

In this episode of Ink Master season 5, titled "Up in Smoke," the competition heats up as the remaining contestants are challenged to create tattoos using smoke as their primary inspiration. This is no easy feat as smoke is a very abstract concept that can be interpreted in a myriad of ways. Some contestants choose to focus on the literal aspect of smoke, using images of smoke plumes, campfires, or cigarettes in their designs. Others take a more interpretive approach and explore the symbolism of smoke in different cultures and contexts.

As always, the stakes are high as the artists battle it out for a chance to win the grand prize of $100,000 and a feature in Inked Magazine. But this week, there's an extra twist: the contestants must work in teams of two, which poses a whole new set of challenges. Each team is tasked with creating two tattoos that both reflect the theme of smoke, but also complement each other in style and execution. As the artists work together, tensions run high as personalities clash and egos clash.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to an up-close look at the creative process, as the artists sketch out their ideas, collaborate with their partners, and execute their tattoos with precision and skill. There are moments of triumph and moments of frustration as the contestants struggle to bring their visions to life on human canvases. Each tattoo is scrutinized by the judges, who are looking for both technical proficiency and artistic flair.

One of the standout moments of the episode is when the contestants are asked to do a blind critique of each other's work. This is a nerve-wracking experience as it's one thing to receive feedback from the judges, but quite another to hear what your peers think of your work. Each artist is given a chance to offer constructive criticism to their fellow competitors, which makes for some tense and emotional moments.

As the episode draws to a close, the artists present their final pieces to the judges, who must decide which team will be sent home and which will move on to the next round. Will the teams be able to put aside their differences and work together to create something truly unique? Or will their individual egos and artistic styles clash, leaving them unable to deliver a cohesive and compelling pair of tattoos? There's only one way to find out - tune in to "Up in Smoke" to see who comes out on top in this intense challenge.