06/20/2026
After nearly a decade of ink, laughter, late nights, and some truly incredible art, Black Pearl Tattoo Co. will be closing its doors one final time — next Saturday, June 27th.
Since the day we opened back in 2016, you have trusted us with your skin, your stories, and your time, and that is something we will carry with us always. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.
We also want to take a moment to honor every artist who has called Black Pearl home over the past ten years — whether for a guest spot or a longer run behind the chair. You helped make this place special.
To our current crew especially: you are not just the best in the business. You are simply the best. Full stop. And though the Pearl will no longer be here, you’ll still be able to find them at various locations in and around the Triangle after June 27th:
🏴☠️Raymond King - Piercing Expert (& First Mate since Day One):
Ray has been the backbone of Black Pearl from the very beginning. While everyone else was solely focused on keeping things creative, Ray kept things running - steadying the ship, handling the day-to-day, and showing up with the same dedication every single day for ten years (and that was on top of being the best piercer around!). There truly are no words - we cannot thank him enough. After next Saturday, you can find Ray at 401 Tattoo in Fuquay-Varina, and they are incredibly lucky to have him.
🏴☠️Paul Lieberman - Artist:
Paul was also with us on day one, and when he eventually moved on, the calls didn't stop - from clients who missed him and his amazing work, but also from us, who missed everything else about having him around. He finally came back, and it was better than ever. Paul's tattooing speaks for itself, but his ability to light up a room is its own kind of gift. You can find him going forward at Inkability on Capital Boulevard in Raleigh.
🏴☠️Daniel Wall - Artist:
Daniel walked in our door already an exceptional artist, and somehow he just kept getting better. His easygoing personality and custom work is in a class of its own — if you don’t believe us, just ask his legion of loyal clients. Eastern NC is fortunate to be his home base, and he’ll be doing guest spots throughout the region this summer. You can follow him on Instagram for updates and to book appointments.
🏴☠️Hana Stephenson - Artist:
Hana started out behind the counter, making sure everyone else's schedule stayed on track. But somewhere along the way, she built a chair and a clientele of her very own - because that's what happens when someone is that talented and that determined. We are so proud of her and everything she has grown into. She'll be continuing her journey at Skin Scene in Dunn.
🏴☠️Elvis Wesley - Artist:
Wes was the missing piece we didn't know we'd been looking for, and the moment he walked in, the shop just felt complete. His style is unlike anything else, and his presence made Black Pearl a better place. We only wish we'd had more time. Wes will be returning to Skin Scene in Dunn, so they already know how lucky they are to have him.
On that note — to 401 Tattoo, Inkability, Skin Scene, and wherever Daniel eventually lands: you are getting some of the finest people we have ever known. Please take good care of them.
And to everyone who ever sat in our chairs, referred a friend, tagged us in a post, or simply stopped in to say hello: thank you, truly.
It has been the honor of a lifetime.
❤️With so much love and gratitude,
Black Pearl Tattoo Co.
Clayton, NC
2016-2026
