The power of the mind is a wonderful thing. We hear stories of cults, but not many of those triumphant enough to make it out of one. Vudu Dahl somehow knew there was a better life ahead of her and chose to risk everything, at the cost of being disowned by her mother and step father. Being strong willed and minded got her thus far.
We're introduced to Vudu Dahl in VH1's Black ink Crew: Compton, and from her exterior you'd never guess this woman had been broken down daily. She exudes sex and confidence, and uses her sexuality as her inspiration. She says, "it's what makes me unique."
As a queer, woman of color, Vudu Dahl in turn looks to inspire others in her same shoes. Being a tattoo artist in a Male-dominated industry was difficult initially; Vudu Dahl recalls being judged, especially because of the way she looked. She says, "women; unfortunately, have to work twice as hard to get the same recognition as our male counterparts... But never, ever, give up. People are going to discriminate. You’re going to get a lot of “no’s,” but keep moving forward! Hard work pays off!" Demanding your respect, despite the way you're viewed by others requires knowing your purpose.
Rather than be defined by her sexuality, Vudu Dahl says she "realized I’m passionate about art and my actions show that and I don’t need anyone’s respect to be a good artist." She is a "full supporter of women owning their sexuality," and believes "a woman can be sexy and still be taken seriously as a successful artist... epecially in the tattoo industry."
As the apprentice at the shop, we get to see Vudu Dahl as the "fun-loving, quirky, tattoo fiend... the life of the party." She's thriving in a healthy, family-like environment, where she says "really support each other and want to see everyone grow." Although Vudu Dahl moved to Compton from Seattle, WA two years ago, she's able to relate to her cast and the Compton culture because they've all had fo endure and show that "anybody can make it; no matter where you’re from or what circumstances you grew up under. Be the best you and live your life unapologetically."
Vudu Dahl is still learning herself, and feels liberated. She says, "I’ve developed a very deep love for myself and I’ve learned to take life by the horns and enjoy the ride!"
For other women for the Culture, she encourages, "Be you. Don’t give a crap what haters have to say, because at the end of the day, you are you and people are going to love it or hate it. As the famous saying goes... ‘Well-behaved women don’t make history.'"
For other women for the Culture, she encourages, "Be you. Don’t give a crap what haters have to say, because at the end of the day, you are you and people are going to love it or hate it. As the famous saying goes... ‘Well-behaved women don’t make history.'"
Watch Vudu Dahl on her journey to making history on this season of Black Ink Crew: Compton, Wednesday nights at 10/9c on VH1, and follow her on Instagram @vudu_dahl.