In the world of Gen Z superstardom, tattoos are rarely just decoration; they are a diary. For the Dolan Twins, Ethan and Grayson, their expanding collection of ink is a roadmap of their evolution from Vine stars to mature content creators.

While Nairobi's youth culture is increasingly embracing body art (just take a walk down Moi Avenue on a Saturday), the Dolan Twins offer a masterclass in meaningful ink. Their tattoos aren't just random flash art; they are deliberate markers of trauma, brotherhood, and spiritual growth. As 2026 unfolds, a closer look at their canvas reveals the philosophy that drives them.

Ethan: The Dreamer

Ethan’s tattoos are often existential. His "Create" tattoo is a manifesto, a command to himself to never stop making art. But it's the "Door to Outer Space" on his thigh that resonates most. It symbolizes the smallness of human problems in the vast cosmos—a perspective we could all use when dealing with Nairobi traffic!

He also sports the number "8", which he considers his angel number. In numerology, 8 represents abundance and power, fitting for a duo that has built a digital empire. His "Can't Fold" ink, inspired by Kid Cudi lyrics, is a gritty reminder of resilience, etched after a hand injury that nearly cost him a thumb.

Grayson: The Stoic

Grayson’s ink is more protective. His "Commit" tattoo is a simple but brutal instruction to stay the course. Perhaps his most poignant piece is the "Matters" tattoo with a line through it. Often misread as "Haters," it actually means "Nothing Matters"—a stoic philosophy that encourages letting go of petty anxieties. It’s a "Hakuna Matata" for the digital age.

• The Bond: Both brothers have matching tattoos that cement their twin connection. These aren't just for aesthetics; they are blood pacts in ink.
• The Guardian Angel: Grayson has a tattoo dedicated to a guardian angel, stemming from a near-death experience at birth where he flatlined. It serves as a constant reminder of his second chance at life.
• Kid Cudi Tribute: Both twins pay homage to rapper Kid Cudi, whose music they credit with helping them navigate the mental health struggles of early fame. It's a tribute to the healing power of art.

More Than Skin Deep

The Dolan Twins demonstrate that tattoos can be a form of therapy. In a world that demands constant perfection, their ink acknowledges their scars—both physical and emotional. They challenge the stigma that still lingers in some conservative circles, proving that you can be successful, disciplined, and heavily tattooed.

For their fans in Kenya and beyond, the message is clear: Your body is your story. Write it well. Whether it's a tribute to a lost loved one or a reminder to "Grind," make it count.