When it comes to tattoos, each design holds a special place in the heart of the wearer. The decision to get inked is deeply personal, often reflecting one's beliefs, memories, or aspirations. As a tattoo artist, I have had the privilege of creating countless pieces of art on people's skin, each telling a unique story. However, if I were to narrow down my top 12 tattoos from my perspective, it would be a challenging task. The selection process is not just about the aesthetic appeal but also the emotional connection and significance behind each piece.
Every tattoo on my list represents a moment of creativity, collaboration, and trust between the client and myself. From intricate designs to simple yet powerful symbols, each artwork stands out for its own reasons. While some may argue that ranking tattoos is subjective and arbitrary, I believe that acknowledging the artistry and craftsmanship behind each piece is essential.
For those whose tattoos made it to my top 10, know that your ink is more than just skin deep; it is a testament to our shared journey in the world of body art. Every line, shade, and detail speaks volumes about the passion and dedication we both put into creating something truly remarkable. So, if you find your tattoo on this list, consider it a celebration of our artistic collaboration and your unique identity etched in ink.
Let's see them up close with a project description. Here is my top 12.
Carman
Carmen holds a special place in my heart, not just as one of my largest tattoos, but as a cherished friend and loyal client for over thirty years. Our journey together began during the early days of my career when she was among the first five individuals I offered complimentary tattoos to. That initial tattoo, a fiery design, marked the beginning of a creative partnership that would evolve and grow over the years.
As time passed, Carmen and I embarked on a transformative artistic endeavor, covering up the original tattoo with a stunning back piece that seamlessly integrated cherry blossoms sourced from another talented artist. This collaborative process not only allowed us to create a visually captivating piece but also served as a symbolic representation of Carmen's personal growth and evolution.
With each subsequent session, we delved deeper into refining and enhancing the artwork, infusing it with a painterly style that added new dimensions of depth and meaning. Our shared dedication to this ongoing project has not only resulted in a beautiful and intricate tattoo but has also deepened the bond between us, transcending the client-artist relationship and blossoming into a lifelong friendship built on creativity, trust, and mutual respect. Carmen's tattoo is not just a piece of art; it is a living testament to the enduring power of collaboration, perseverance, and the beauty that can emerge from the fusion of artistic vision and personal narrative.
Mike
I have done many tattoos much larger than Mike's fish, but none as painterly and awesome as this. I consider this my best rendering using tattoo ink I have ever done. This was a flawless day of execution, and it shows. Using a painting as inspiration, we adapted it to fit the tattoo style. I am very proud of how this one came out. Again, I do believe this is my best art and technique offering ever for a tattoo at any scale.
Daune
With the tattoo on Daune, a new era was ushered in, unveiling an entirely fresh world of artistic expression. What distinguishes this particular tattoo and renders it truly exceptional to me is the pioneering trend it encapsulated. The skull, rendered with a delicate touch and a vibrant color palette, introduced a style that was unprecedented at the time of its creation. This innovative approach not only set a new standard but also pushed the boundaries of creativity within the tattoo community.
Moreover, this moment marked the inception of sacred geometry making its mark in the tattoo industry. The incorporation of intricate geometric patterns, exemplified by the succulent that elegantly closes off the design at the bottom, added a layer of depth and symbolism to the artwork. It was a fusion of artistry and spirituality, a harmonious blend that resonated with those seeking more than just a mere aesthetic adornment.
As the tattoo evolved, expanding to encompass half of the recipient's back and side, it became a living canvas, a testament to the transformative power of art. Each line, curve, and shade told a story, reflecting not only Daune's skill as an artist but also the personal journey and growth of the individual wearing the tattoo. It became more than just ink on skin; it became a part of her identity, a visual representation of her inner self, boldly displayed for the world to see.
In essence, this tattoo was not just a design; it was a statement, a symbol of innovation, creativity, and self-expression. It paved the way for a new wave of tattoo artistry, inspiring both artists and enthusiasts to explore uncharted territories and redefine the boundaries of what was possible in the world of tattoo design.
Rene
Rene, a man on a mission, embarked on a unique journey of self-expression through tattoos. Despite reaching the age of 60 with a clean canvas, by the time he turned 66, he had transformed 85% of his body into a vibrant tapestry of ink. However, what truly sets him apart is not the sheer coverage but the intricate artistry and innovative approach behind each tattoo, particularly his back piece that holds a special place in the top 12.
The concept behind Rene's back piece was ambitious and profound, delving into the realms of life both above and below the water's surface. The central theme revolved around a shipwreck and a fearsome Kraken, symbolizing the raw power and mystery of the ocean. The meticulous planning and execution of this piece were evident as they sought to capture the essence of a haunting underwater world.
The creation of the Kraken was no ordinary task; it was envisioned as a freestyle psychological masterpiece, transcending the boundaries of traditional tattoo artistry. Each stroke of the needle breathed life into the intricate design, with the souls of the departed intricately woven into the skin of the beast. This fusion of art and storytelling showcased the depth of creativity and skill required to bring such a vision to life.
Rene's passion for freestyle tattooing shone through in this piece, highlighting the freedom and fluidity of freeform drawing. The intricate details, the haunting imagery, and the overall composition of the back piece stood as a testament to the power of artistic expression and the transformative nature of tattoos.
Day of The Dead
This particular tattoo design breaks away from the traditional Day of the Dead style, showcasing a fresh and innovative approach to the genre. The decision to incorporate the concept of "flowers from within" added a profound layer of meaning and symbolism to the artwork. By collaborating closely with the artist and giving them the creative freedom to explore this concept, a truly unique and exceptional piece was brought to life.
The process of allowing artists the space to express themselves fully is essential in achieving groundbreaking and distinctive tattoo designs. In this case, the artist was able to unleash their creativity and talent, resulting in a tattoo project that exceeded expectations. The fact that this project took place in 2017 further emphasizes its forward-thinking nature, as it was ahead of its time in terms of design and concept.
Overall, this tattoo stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and artistic freedom in creating remarkable and timeless pieces of body art. It serves as a reminder that innovation and creativity know no bounds, especially when artists are given the opportunity to push the boundaries of traditional tattooing.
Buzz
Buzz has quite a few of my original pieces of art, showcasing a variety of my artistic styles and skills. Among these pieces are some of my most horror-themed tattoos, each telling a unique and chilling story on their own. However, one particular tattoo stands out among the rest - a portrait that was undoubtedly the scariest piece I have ever worked on.
The focal point of this tattoo was the hands, a notoriously challenging subject to render accurately in art. Yet, I took on the challenge of depicting hands drenched in blood, adding an extra layer of complexity and terror to the project. The process of creating these bloody hands was not only technically demanding but also emotionally intense, as I strived to capture the essence of horror in every detail.
Despite the daunting nature of the task, I poured my heart and soul into this project, pushing my artistic boundaries to new heights. The result was a tattoo that surpassed all expectations, standing as a testament to my dedication and skill as a tattoo artist. This particular piece now holds a special place in my portfolio, ranking among the top 12 tattoos I have ever created. It serves as a reminder of the challenges I have overcome and the triumphs I have achieved in my artistic journey.
Some of the other work on Buzz
Patrick
Patrick, a dedicated police officer in the vibrant state of California, proudly wears on his arm an intricate art piece that symbolizes his unwavering commitment to serving and protecting his community. The tattoo, a tribute to St. Michael, the patron saint of law enforcement, begins with a traditional depiction of the archangel before gradually transforming into a mesmerizing blend of artistic themes that captivate the eye.
The artist skillfully incorporates iconic imagery into the design, infusing it with a creative twist that pushes the boundaries of traditional tattoo artistry. As the tattoo progresses down Patrick's arm, it delves into deeper, more profound symbolism, exploring the juxtaposition of light and darkness, good and evil. This fusion of elements not only showcases the artist's mastery of black and gray tattooing but also reflects the complexities of Patrick's role as a police officer, where he must navigate the shades of gray that exist in the line of duty.
The attention to detail and the seamless transition between different themes make Patrick's arm tattoo a true masterpiece that stands out as a testament to both his dedication to his profession and his appreciation for the art of tattooing. From the intricate line work to the shading and composition, every aspect of this tattoo demonstrates a high level of artistry and craftsmanship, making it a standout piece that is sure to inspire admiration and intrigue in all who behold it.
Neptune
Some call him Poseidon and other know him as Neptune. But the killer tattoo that would come out is only half the story. This tattoo covers up a very black tribal arm band and does so with perfect execution. I consider this my best cover up of all time. It was about the hard to cover tribal as well as the well executed art work in combination. Either one on their own was a good tattoo but when you combine both you have a top 12 qualifier for sure.
Teresa
Working with certain clients can truly be a creative journey that allows artists to push the boundaries of their art form. Teresa is one such client who has consistently encouraged and inspired the artist to explore new territories. The floral tattoos created together back in 2013 stand as a testament to this collaborative spirit. During that period, the tattoo industry was undergoing a significant transformation with artists experimenting with techniques like tattooing without outlines, a trend that was just beginning to gain traction.
The two flowers, in particular, hold a special place in the artist's heart not only for their aesthetic beauty but also for the timing of their creation, which was indeed ahead of the curve. Teresa's willingness to embrace innovation and unconventional approaches has allowed the artist to create pieces that are not only visually striking but also symbolically significant.
Beyond these floral tattoos, Teresa's other tattoo designs also reflect a sense of creativity and originality. Each piece is a unique expression of both the artist's skill and Teresa's vision, resulting in a collection of work that is both diverse and innovative. It is this collaborative dynamic that has elevated Teresa's tattoos to the artist's personal top 12 list, showcasing the power of a client-artist relationship that fosters creativity and artistic growth.
Jordan
To truly appreciate the significance of this tattoo, it is essential to grasp the intricate process of design that precedes the actual tattooing. This particular piece holds a special place in my heart as it required a meticulous approach to creation. The initial concept brought in by the client was promising, but the execution in the painting was lacking in detail and finesse. It fell upon me to transform this rudimentary sketch into a masterpiece.
Utilizing the digital tools in Photoshop, I dedicated several hours to refining and enhancing every aspect of the design. Each element was carefully crafted to convey a specific message or symbolism, ensuring that the tattoo would resonate deeply with the wearer. The attention to detail and the thoughtful placement of each component elevated the artwork from a mere idea to a work of art.
The true beauty of this tattoo lies not only in its final form but in the journey it took to get there. The exhaustive hours spent perfecting the design laid the foundation for a tattoo that transcends mere ink on skin. It is a testament to the power of creativity and dedication, turning a simple concept into a meaningful and visually stunning piece of body art.
Marcie
The flower leg and hip tattoo I am creating for Marcie is truly a masterpiece and the most extensive collection of flowers I have ever worked on. Each time I work on this tattoo, I can't help but express to Marcie that it is my favorite and the best flower tattoo I have ever done. Even though it is not yet completed, the level of detail and artistry that has gone into this piece is unparalleled.
Marcie, a lifelong friend of my wife, has been a delight to collaborate with throughout this project. Her trust in my skills has allowed me to truly showcase my talent, especially with such a diverse and large collection of flowers incorporated into one design. What makes this tattoo even more special is that each flower holds a significant meaning. From California poppies to German, Hawaiian, and other flowers, each one has been carefully chosen to represent her family's heritage.
Having worked in the tattoo industry for a considerable amount of time, this particular piece undoubtedly stands out as one of the best collections of flowers I have had the privilege to work on in my career. The intricate details, the personal significance behind each flower, and the trust placed in me by Marcie have all contributed to making this tattoo a top highlight in my portfolio.
Tummy Tuck
In the realm of body art, the significance of para medical tattoos cannot be overstated. They serve not only as a means of self-expression but also as a powerful tool for individuals to reclaim their sense of self-confidence and self-esteem. The tummy tuck scar cover mentioned here stands out as a testament to the transformative power of tattoos. It is not merely an artwork but a symbol of resilience, beauty, and healing.
The intricate design that stretches from one side of the body to the other is a masterpiece in itself. The artist's skill in balancing the need for mass covering with maintaining a feminine and elegant shape is truly commendable. It is a fusion of artistry and empathy, where the tattoo not only conceals scars but also celebrates the body's natural beauty.
Beyond the aesthetics, the emotional impact of this para medical tattoo is profound. The joy and confidence it brings to the individual are immeasurable. To be able to look in the mirror and see a work of art that not only covers physical scars but also uplifts the spirit is a priceless gift. It reaffirms the therapeutic nature of tattooing, where the artist's hand becomes a conduit for healing and empowerment.
In essence, this tummy tuck scar cover represents more than just ink on skin; it is a narrative of resilience, beauty, and self-love. It embodies the essence of tattooing as a transformative art form that has the power to heal, inspire, and empower individuals on their journey towards self-acceptance and happiness.
Did you make the top 12? Well, if your tattoo didn't make it, please don't feel disheartened. The selection of these particular projects was based on their hyper-specific significance in my career. While there are numerous other pieces that could have been included based on their technical complexity or artistic merit, I opted to focus on pieces that held a deeper personal meaning for me. It's important to note that there are many larger works that didn't make the cut, but I wanted to be transparent about my choices and share my honest opinions.
For a tattoo to make it into my top 12, it needed to be more than just visually appealing – it had to resonate with pivotal moments in my career. Each of these tattoos represents an epic chapter in my journey as an artist, capturing the essence of significant milestones and creative breakthroughs.
Looking ahead, I plan to curate more top 12 lists in the future, featuring categories like my top 12 color tattoos or top 12 large-scale projects. So, if your tattoo didn't make it this time, there will be more opportunities in the future. The essence of this top 12 compilation was to reflect on the transformative moments that shaped my artistic identity, influencing my approach to tattooing in the years that followed.
Honorable Mentions
I found this top 12 list as one of the hardest choices. For every tattoo I choose there was 5 or 6 tattoos I had to not place. Let's face it, there is no favorite tattoos. But there is awesome friendships with wonderful people to share this art form with. Thank you to everyone who has allowed me to tattoo with you. Your are all beautiful.
Hi, I agree with your top ten picks but as we're working on finishing my arm piece I hope to be included as a favorite.
Let us know what you think is the best of the best from our studio. Did I get it right?