YORK, Pa. — Throughout February, FOX43 News will shine the spotlight on Black-owned businesses in central Pennsylvania. Showing uniqueness, individuality, culture and the arts, FOX43 will visit several businesses and understand what it means to be Black-owned.
The first stop is Jay Skinz Tattoo Shop, located in Manchester Township, York County.
Conroy Smith, also known as Jay, is the owner of the tattoo shop and is originally from St. Maria, Jamaica. He started Jay Skinz Tattoo Shop in 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith had to keep the shop closed for three months before he could officially open to customers.
“It was a really crazy idea, but sometimes you have to take a leap of faith,” said Smith.
Although there were many struggles in Smith’s journey, he tells FOX43 he doesn’t dwell on it and keeps pushing forward.
On Smith’s team are several tattoo artists who are equally as talented. Aries, a new tattoo artist from Harrisburg, says she got her start because Smith extended an offer when many shops wouldn’t.
“He taught me everything I know, and I’m a pretty dope artist now,” said Aries.
We asked Smith what it means to him to be Black-owned, especially not being from the States and having a rough start to opening his business.
“...it means everything to me because, with the color of our skin, we don’t get too many opportunities,” said Smith. “To really picture something in your mind and create it--it takes a lot of hard work and effort, and it’s amazing to be Black-owned and have this.”
Jay Skinz Tattoo is open Monday - Thursday from noon to 8 p.m. and Friday - Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. Appointments are accepted, but walk-ins are also welcomed. To make an appointment, click here.