Bhubaneswar, Dec. 7: Body art has emerged as a rage among youngsters with many choosing to use their bodies as canvas to inscribe memories.

To provide a one-stop solution for all queries related to body art, a new tattoo studio was launched here today. Skivas, located at Kalpana Road, is the brainchild of artist Om Acharya. Apart from tattoos, the studio will also provide services such as body piercings and face painting. A number of tattoo instruments will also be available at the studio with Om being an authorised product stockist.

A coffee shop amid an artistic ambience is another attraction at the studio. Popular anchor and TV artiste Sulagna Routray launched a tattoo magazine on the occasion.

The studio would also offer consultation services. "One can come in and inquire about designs and the pros and cons of getting a tattoo. We are ready to take care of people's apprehensions," Om said.

Tourism and culture minister Ashok Panda and Bhubaneswar mayor Ananta Narayan Jena were present during the inauguration.

"Body art is deeply embedded in the state's cultural heritage. The tattoo scene has shown huge promise. A tattoo festival will help in promoting the art form," said Panda.

Om said there was a need to maintain a high level of cleanliness by the artists too. At the studio, he will organise a number of workshops for new tattoo artists who are entering the industry.

"The art form has gradually turned into a business and more and more youngsters are taking it up as a profession. So, it is extremely necessary that they are aware of the advanced tattoo-making techniques that lowers the chances of skin diseases," said Om.

The studio was earlier located in a rented space at Patia.

"The youngsters who are getting the tattoos are from diverse backgrounds. Some of them are tour operators, photographers, dancers, theatre artistes, while some others are employees in the IT sector. The growth of the art form is a promising sign and so we thought a permanent space will help," said Om, who has become a veteran in the field with over 10 years of experience behind him.

Hyderabad-based artist Amin Sultan Hajiani, who joined in the celebrations, said: "Tattooing as an art has turned into a business. A number of youngsters are experimenting with designs and are opting for customised tattoos. Consequently, the demand for portrait tattoos has also risen," said Amin.