Every year, the APP Conference gathers the piercing community, offering a chance to learn, grow, and connect with like-minded professionals. But this year, there was one special moment that truly stood out—a moment that I will never forget.
All of Fakir Musafar’s alumni in attendance reunited at the APP Conference to take a photo together. It may sound simple, but for those of us who have been touched by his teachings, it was a powerful, symbolic moment. It wasn’t just a photo—it was a celebration of the legacy that Fakir has shaped, and continues to shape, in the world of body modification.
Who is Fakir Musafar?
Fakir is much more than just a pioneer in the world of body modification—he’s a teacher, a visionary, and a spiritual guide. Through his Fakir Intensives, he didn’t just teach technique, he taught us to approach body modification with a deep respect for its spiritual and psychological impact.
Having had the privilege of attending the Fakir Intensives in 2015, I can confidently say that it was a transformative experience. Fakir’s teachings weren’t only about how to perform a piercing, but about the intention, the meaning, and the respect behind every mark we make. His philosophy that body play can open the door to spirit still resonates in every piercing I do, every client I work with.
Why the Alumni Photo Was So Significant
When Fakir’s alumni came together for that photo, it was a reminder of everything he’s given to us. Many of us have gone on to open studios, teach, and pass on the skills he instilled in us. Yet, in that moment, we were simply students again, acknowledging the man who changed all of our lives.
This photo wasn’t just about capturing faces—it was about recognizing the depth of Fakir’s influence on each of us and the entire piercing industry. It was a celebration of a shared vision, of people who have dedicated their lives to honoring his teachings.
Why Fakir’s Legacy Matters Today
As a piercer with over 25 years of experience, I can say without hesitation that Fakir’s influence continues to shape the way I approach my work. It’s not just about precision—it’s about intention, energy, and understanding the transformative potential of body modification.
Fakir’s belief that body art can be a deeply spiritual experience is something I carry with me every day. It’s why I take my time with each client, why I honor their unique journey, and why I approach every piercing with a level of care that’s rooted in his teachings.
A Moment of Gratitude and Continuation
I’m incredibly grateful to Fakir for the knowledge and wisdom he’s passed down to me and to all his alumni. Being able to reunite with other Fakir-trained piercers at the APP Conference was a moment of reflection on everything we’ve learned and the path we’ve chosen to follow.
For those who’ve ever been pierced by a Fakir alum, or who are thinking about the deeper meaning behind body modification, know that you’re part of this legacy too. And to Fakir, thank you for guiding us, for teaching us, and for continuing to inspire us every day.