Tattoo Styles

Colorful tattoo featuring multiple female faces and geometric shapes, with elements of realism and abstract artwork.

Avant-garde

Avant-garde refers to new and experimental ideas and methods in any field, particularly in the arts, that are considered to be at the forefront of innovation and challenge established norms. It literally translates from French as "vanguard" or "advance guard," implying a position at the leading edge of progress or change. 

Tattoo of a smiling woman's face with long hair, wearing a beaded necklace, and a hat with a fish skull design.

Realism

Realism tattoos are a style of tattooing that aims to replicate subjects with photographic accuracy, creating a lifelike effect on the skin. They are characterized by intricate details, shading, and gradients, and often depicted using black and grey ink or a full range of colors. 

Back tattoo of a traditional Japanese Hannya mask with floral and wave designs, covering the person's back from shoulders to lower back.

Neo-Japanese

In the context of tattoos, Neo-Japanese refers to a modern style that builds upon traditional Japanese tattooing techniques and motifs, incorporating elements of Western tattoo art. It's a fusion of traditional and contemporary styles, often featuring more detail and a wider colour palette than strictly traditional Japanese tattoos.

Black and gray tattoo on person's upper arm featuring a bird, skull, geometric shapes, and handwritten text.

Fine Line

Fine Line tattoos are characterised by their delicate, precise lines and minimalistic style. This technique uses a single needle or a small grouping to create clean, intricate designs with subtle detail. Often used for small, elegant pieces or detailed illustrations, Fine Line tattoos focus on precision and softness rather than bold outlines or heavy shading. They’re popular for their understated aesthetic and ability to capture detail with minimal ink.