Which reality series follows tattoo artists competing in challenges judged by experienced tattoo professionals?

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The reality series in which tattoo artists compete in challenges judged by tattoo professionals is 'Ink Master'.

Contestants complete tattoos based on a weekly theme or technical skill, such as line work, shading, color, realism, or portraiture. Human canvases receive the tattoos, and judges compare the results against the challenge's requirements. A contestant is eliminated during the season, leaving a final group to compete for the title.

The US series premiered on Spike in 2012, a network later renamed Paramount Network. Dave Navarro hosted the original run, while renowned tattoo artists including Chris Núñez and Oliver Peck served as judges during different periods.

The show is a competition among tattoo professionals rather than a general body-art makeover program. Because tattoos are permanent, the judging often discusses both artistic quality and technical execution, including how well a design will age on skin.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Aug. 2026

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