Ep 8. Be Ready For Anything

In the eighth episode of season two of Best Ink, titled "Be Ready For Anything," the finalists are put to the test with an unexpected challenge. The episode begins with the four remaining tattoo artists, Alli, Jesse, Brittany, and Jerod, arriving at the competition studio to meet host Pete Wentz and judges Sabina Kelley and Joe Capobianco. They are informed that for their elimination tattoo challenge, they will need to use only shades of black and gray to create realistic portraits of animals.

The contestants are given a few hours to prepare for the challenge, researching and sketching their designs before meeting their canvases. During this time, tensions rise as the artists struggle with the pressure of the competition and the high stakes of the final challenge. Alli struggles to overcome her self-doubt and focus on her artwork, while Jesse worries about the complexity of his chosen design.

Once the contestants meet their canvases, they have six hours to complete their tattoos. As they work, the judges wander the studio, observing their progress and offering critiques. Brittany impresses the judges with her portrait of a wolf, while Jerod struggles to capture the texture of a rhinoceros's skin. Alli contemplates changing her design mid-way through the challenge, while Jesse runs into trouble with the fine details of his portrait.

As the clock winds down, the contestants race to finish their tattoos. When the time is up, the judges survey the results and critique each artist's work. They praise Brittany for her clean lines and attention to detail, and note that Jerod's choice to blend black and gray ink gives his rhinoceros a more lifelike appearance. Alli's finished tattoo earns mixed reviews, with the judges praising her creativity but questioning some of her technical choices. Jesse's complex design ultimately falls short, with the judges noting that his focus on the smallest details led to some inconsistencies elsewhere in the tattoo.

After evaluating the contestants' elimination tattoos, the judges deliberate to determine who will be eliminated from the competition. The final decision is a tough one, with all four artists having shown impressive skill and creativity throughout the season. Ultimately, the judges announce that Jesse will be leaving the competition, citing his struggles with the technical aspects of the challenge as the deciding factor.

In the final segment of the episode, the remaining three artists reflect on the competition so far and gear up for the upcoming finale. They are given a teaser of what to expect in the next challenge, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats and eager to see how the season will wrap up.