Before the Ink
A face needs expression. A sleeve needs to work as a whole, not just as a collection of images. Before I start tattooing, I work through those decisions in the design: what draws your eye, where the shadows fall, and how the piece follows the body.
Whether I’m working in color or black & grey, that’s where I begin. Below, you’ll find different examples of how that approach takes shape.
Tattoo Styles
From color realism and black & grey to portraits, cover-ups, religious work, and full sleeves, I approach every tattoo as a custom composition. Explore the styles below and find the direction that best fits the piece you have in mind.
A DIFFERENT SIDE OF REALISM
Neo-Negative Tattoos
In my Neo-Negative work, I divide realistic subjects into contrasting areas of color, black & grey, light, and texture. Each section has its own character while remaining part of one complete composition.
You Don’t Need the Whole Design Figured Out
A subject, a placement, or even a rough reference is enough to start the conversation. Send me what you have in mind, and we can work out what the tattoo needs from there.
THE TATTOO PROCESS
From First Line to Final Detail
A finished tattoo only shows the last stage. While I work, I’m constantly checking how the design sits on the body, whether the contrast is strong enough, and how each section connects to the next.
This video shows one of those pieces taking shape. Every layer has a purpose, and I would rather take the time to solve the details than force something that does not fit the design or the body.
THE ARTIST BEHIND THE WORK
Meet Frank
Drawing and painting were part of my life long before tattooing. After studying art, I discovered tattooing and knew I wanted to make it my profession.
Since then, my career has taken me through different studios, conventions, and more than one fresh start. Each chapter has given me the chance to learn from other artists and develop my own voice. Today, I continue that journey in the Kansas City area.
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