Leticia Nabagesera, the visionary founder of INKED, is a force of artistic fusion, seamlessly blending the worlds of tattoo artistry and fashion design.Leticia has carved a unique niche, creating a brand that celebrates individuality and storytelling through wearable art. Her brand is a reflection of Leticia’s personal journey, transforming her passion for art into a tangible expression of self.
Leticia’s love affair with art began in her childhood, where sketching and customizing clothing were her favorite pastimes. She started her adventure in fashion by transforming second-hand pieces into personalized outfits as a form of self-expression. Although her initial foray into higher education led her to Bachelors Degree in Tourism at Makerere University Business School (MUBS), her artistic calling proved too strong to ignore. She ultimately dropped out to follow her true passion, embracing a short course in art and fashion before delving into the world of tattoos.
The inspiration behind INKED stems from Leticia’s desire to create art that is both intimate and deeply personal. Tattoos, as a form of wearable storytelling, naturally aligned with her vision. She sought to extend this concept into her fashion designs, creating pieces that empower individuals and make them feel seen. The convergence of these two mediums felt organic, as both are rooted in individuality and creative expression.
Leticia Nabagesera current collection is a captivating blend of denim outfits and tattoo-inspired prints. Each piece is a narrative, inspired by personal stories and self-expression. The collection serves as a powerful testament to the storytelling potential of both fashion and tattoos. Adding another layer of depth, Leticia collaborates with clients, interpreting their personal stories through both tattoos and fashion designs. This unique approach brings a shared humanity into the spotlight, making the art profoundly personal and resonant.
When asked about the various challenges Leticia Nabagesera faces as a tattoo artists, she highlights that there is a lot of stigma surrounding tattoos and the lack of resources for art education. ‘The biggest challenge has been balancing different creative visions, especially when cultural interpretations differ. However, the reward is the mutual learning and innovation that comes from various collaborations with other artists. It’s always inspiring to see how different cultures interpret art and modern day tattoos’.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of Leticia’s work and thats why she upcycles second hand denim, to minimize waste. She also ensures her production processes are eco-friendly. In her tattoo artistry, she prioritizes vegan inks that promote minimalist designs that transcend fleeting trends. For Leticia, sustainability is about creating pieces that are cherished for a lifetime, whether it’s a tattoo or a garment.
While community collaboration is a future goal, Leticia Nabagesera plans to host workshops for aspiring artists, sharing her expertise in both tattoo artistry and fashion design.she is very excited about the emerging appreciation for homegrown talent in Uganda. She sees Ugandan artists and designers making significant strides on the international stage, fostering an inclusive and innovative industry. She is particularly inspired by the young creatives who are challenging stereotypes and using their platforms to tell authentic stories.
The art and tattoo industry in Uganda, while vibrant, is still in its developmental stages. Leticia recognizes the need for improved infrastructure, funding, and mentorship programs to support artists. However, she sees a bright future, fueled by collaboration and a commitment to pushing creative boundaries.
For Leticia, originality stems from authenticity. She draws inspiration from her personal experiences, Ugandan culture, and the stories shared by her clients. While trends may be alluring, she prioritizes creating pieces that resonate deeply with her clients. She believes that true creativity flourishes when artists remain true to their unique voices, rather than chasing fleeting popularity.
Source: Trillion Looks
