Creative Process
My approach to tattooing is rooted in artistic freedom and a strong personal aesthetic. I see tattooing as an extension of my work as a visual artist. Every piece is approached individually, with careful consideration of composition, proportions, atmosphere, and the relationship between the tattoo and the body. My work is not defined by technique alone. The choice of subject matter, the balance between elements, and the overall visual direction are equally important. For this reason, I carefully select the projects I take on. I only accept work that aligns with my artistic direction and that I believe I can execute to the highest standard. My goal is not simply to reproduce an image or fulfil a list of requested elements, but to create a tattoo that works as a complete piece.
My Work
I primarily work in three different styles: Black & Grey Realism, Japanese Traditional, and American Traditional. Each requires a different approach to composition, technique, and execution. Pricing and the number of sessions vary accordingly.
My approach to black and grey realism is highly selective and composition-driven. While realism is the primary technique, the artistic direction goes far beyond reproducing realistic images. Subject matter, atmosphere, contrast, visual balance, and the relationship between different elements are essential to my work. I welcome general ideas and personal references, but I do not work from predetermined compositions or extensive lists of subjects that must all be included. Artistic freedom is particularly important in larger projects such as sleeves and back pieces, where every element needs to contribute to the overall composition. I make the final aesthetic and compositional decisions based on what I believe will create the strongest result. Existing tattoos are also taken into consideration. Not every tattoo can be successfully incorporated into a larger composition, even if I originally created it as an individual piece. For these reasons, I may decline projects that are technically possible but do not align with my artistic direction. Black & Grey Realism is generally my most time-intensive approach, and pricing reflects the technical complexity and level of work involved.
Black & Grey Realism
Japanese traditional tattooing follows a different artistic approach, based on established visual principles, traditional imagery, and the relationship between the tattoo and the body's anatomy. I am particularly interested in large-scale Japanese compositions, including sleeves, back pieces, and full bodysuits. For these projects, I prefer to consider the body as a whole, even when the tattoo will be completed over several years. Composition, movement, background, and the relationship between the main subjects are essential. Individual elements are not treated as separate images but as parts of a unified design. I work within my own interpretation of Japanese traditional tattooing, while respecting the visual language and compositional principles of the style. Clients are welcome to share subjects they are drawn to, but the final selection, placement, and arrangement of motifs must allow for a cohesive composition. For large-scale Japanese work, I strongly recommend planning the entire project from the beginning rather than developing unrelated sections over time. Pricing is assessed according to the scale, complexity, and number of sessions required.
Japanese Traditional
American traditional tattooing is built around strong compositions, bold outlines, solid colour, and clear, recognisable imagery. Compared with my larger realism and Japanese projects, this style also allows me to work on smaller, individual tattoos. I enjoy the simplicity and directness of traditional tattooing, where every line, shape, and colour has a purpose. My approach is rooted in the established visual language of American traditional tattooing, interpreted through my own drawing style and aesthetic preferences. I accept both individual traditional tattoos and larger compositions, depending on the subject matter and the project. As with my other work, I do not accept every request. The subject and overall aesthetic must still align with my artistic interests. Pricing depends on the size, complexity, and time required for each tattoo.
American Traditional
Before contacting me, I recommend taking the time to explore my portfolio and familiarise yourself with my work. When submitting an enquiry, you are welcome to share a general idea, subjects that are meaningful to you, and examples of my previous tattoos that you particularly like. However, please understand that artistic freedom does not simply mean allowing me to arrange a predetermined collection of motifs. It also includes the freedom to reconsider the subject matter, remove or replace elements, simplify a composition, and make decisions about the overall visual direction. I do not automatically accept every project that falls within one of the styles I work in. If I do not see the potential to create something that fits my artistic direction, I may decline the project rather than compromise the final result. This is not a judgement of your idea or its personal significance. It simply means that my artistic approach may not be the right fit for what you have in mind.
Project Selection & Artistic Freedom
Consultations & Booking
All enquiries are initially reviewed through written communication. Please include a general description of your idea, relevant references, and clear photographs of the area you would like tattooed, including any existing tattoos. I review this information before deciding whether to accept a project. I do not normally offer in-person consultations at the initial enquiry stage. If a consultation is necessary, it will be arranged after the project has been reviewed and usually close to the scheduled appointment. I do not develop compositions or propose alternative concepts during initial enquiries. These decisions require dedicated creative attention and are part of working on an accepted project. Once your project has been accepted, you will receive information about pricing, the estimated number of sessions, and the booking process. A deposit is required to secure an appointment.
Trust & Expectations
Choosing to work with me means choosing my artistic interpretation, experience, and aesthetic judgement. I always consider my clients' ideas and preferences, but I also believe that part of my responsibility as an artist is to recognise when something could be approached differently or improved. I am not interested in simply completing a tattoo because a client is willing to pay for it. I want every project to receive my full attention and the highest quality of work I can offer, regardless of its size. If I believe a project will not produce a result I can confidently stand behind, I would rather decline it. My aim is to create tattoos that both my clients and I can remain proud of for years to come.