Best Tattoo Artists in Brisbane 2026: Top 15 Studios & Artists

Best Tattoo Artists in Brisbane 2026: Your Complete Guide to Queensland's Finest Tattooers

Brisbane's tattoo scene has exploded in recent years, evolving from a handful of traditional studios to a thriving artistic community spanning Fortitude Valley, West End, Lutwyche, and beyond. With over 100 tattoo studios across Greater Brisbane, finding the right artist for your style and vision can feel overwhelming. Whether you're seeking photorealistic portraits, bold traditional work, intricate Japanese sleeves, or delicate fine-line designs, Brisbane offers world-class talent across every specialization.

This comprehensive 2026 guide features Brisbane's top 15 tattoo artists, each carefully selected based on portfolio quality, client reviews, Instagram presence, technical expertise, and style specialization. We've included verified information on their studio locations, pricing ranges ($120-350/hour), Instagram handles, and what makes each artist exceptional. Whether you're in Lutwyche looking for micro-realism, West End seeking traditional Americana, or anywhere across Brisbane wanting Japanese irezumi, this guide connects you with Brisbane's finest tattoo artists.

🔍 Quick Navigation: Use TattooNearMe's search filters to find artists by style, location, and availability. Book consultations directly through verified artist profiles.

Top 15 Brisbane Tattoo Artists 2026: Ranked by Style & Expertise

1. Jake Jones – Black & Grey Realism Master

📍 Studio: CB Ink Tattoo, Lutwyche
📸 Instagram: @jakejonestattoo
🎨 Specialization: Black & Grey Realism, Portrait Work

Jake Jones stands as one of Brisbane's most sought-after realism artists, featured in the Courier Mail's 10 Best Brisbane Tattoo Artists. His exceptional talent in black and grey realism and portrait work has earned him nationwide recognition. Jake's ability to capture photorealistic detail and emotional depth in his tattoos makes him a first choice for clients seeking lifelike portraits and intricate realism pieces. With years of experience at Brisbane's top-rated studio CB Ink, Jake maintains a consistently booked schedule due to his masterful technique and reputation for delivering stunning, gallery-quality tattoos that exceed client expectations. His portfolio showcases everything from celebrity portraits to beloved family members and pets, all rendered with extraordinary precision and tonal depth.

Find Realism Artists in Brisbane

2. Alex Davies – Premium Black & Grey Specialist

📍 Studio: Balaclava Ink (Owner), Woolloongabba
📸 Instagram: @alex.davies.tattoo
🎨 Specialization: Black & Grey Realism

Alex Davies owns and operates Balaclava Ink, one of Brisbane's premier realism studios. Since 2016, he has worked alongside legendary Brisbane artist Jimmy at Jimmy Tattoo Studio, who became his mentor. Alex specializes in large-scale black and grey realism tattoos, with particular expertise in detailed portraiture and animal work. His philosophy centres on exceeding client expectations through custom designs and meticulous attention to detail. While realism is his passion, Alex is also proficient in colour work, watercolour, script, mandalas, and neo-traditional styles, making him one of Brisbane's most versatile artists. His own studio, Balaclava Ink in Woolloongabba, reflects his commitment to premium custom tattooing in a professional, welcoming environment.

3. Matt Cunnington – Japanese Traditional Authority

📍 Studio: Westside Tattoo (Owner), West End
📸 Instagram: @mfcunnington
🎨 Specialization: Japanese Traditional

Matt Cunnington has owned Westside Tattoo for over 20 years, establishing himself as one of Brisbane's most respected Japanese tattoo specialists. His work is bold, irreverent, and thought-provoking, bending and breaking traditional Japanese rules with equal measures of respect and creative innovation. Matt's distinctive approach to Japanese tattooing combines classic techniques with contemporary artistic vision, creating pieces that honor the tradition while pushing creative boundaries. His extensive experience and unique artistic voice have made Westside Tattoo a destination studio for clients seeking authentic Japanese work with a modern edge. For those planning large-scale Japanese bodysuit projects, Matt offers the expertise and vision to guide multi-year tattoo journeys.

Browse Japanese Artists in Brisbane

4. Chris Strik – Neo-Traditional & Illustrative Innovator

📍 Studio: Paragon Tattoo (Owner), Chermside
📸 Instagram: @chrisstriktattoo (15K followers)
🎨 Specialization: Neo-Traditional & Illustrative

Chris Strik owns and operates Paragon Tattoo, specializing in neo-traditional and illustrative tattoo work with 15K Instagram followers showcasing his distinctive style. While he enjoys tattooing in all styles, his main focus on illustrative and neo-traditional work has earned him recognition as one of Brisbane's top artists in these genres. Chris's bold colour palettes, dynamic compositions, and attention to detail create eye-catching pieces that blend traditional tattoo aesthetics with contemporary illustration techniques. His studio in Chermside has become a hub for clients seeking vibrant, artistic tattoos with strong visual impact. Whether you're after a vivid floral piece or a custom character design, Chris brings exceptional creativity and technical skill to every project.

5. Rhys Sharp – Japanese & Anime Specialist

📍 Studio: CB Ink Tattoo, Lutwyche
📸 Instagram: @rhyssharp_tattoo
🎨 Specialization: Japanese, Neo-Traditional, Anime

Rhys Sharp is one of Brisbane's most talented Japanese tattoo artists, also specializing in neo-traditional and anime tattoos. His mastery of Japanese tattooing techniques, from traditional irezumi to contemporary interpretations, showcases his deep understanding of the art form's cultural significance and visual language. Rhys's versatility allows him to seamlessly blend Japanese aesthetics with neo-traditional elements and anime-inspired designs, creating unique pieces that appeal to both traditional collectors and pop culture enthusiasts. His technical precision and creative approach make him a standout artist at CB Ink's impressive roster, perfect for clients seeking authentic Japanese work or custom anime character tattoos with traditional craftsmanship.

6. Erwin – Traditional & Fine Line Expert

📍 Studio: CB Ink Tattoo, Lutwyche
📸 Instagram: @cbinktattoobrisbane
🎨 Specialization: Traditional, Fine Line, Illustrative

Erwin is recognized as one of Brisbane's best traditional tattoo artists, with traditional being the first style he fell in love with and subsequently mastered. His work transcends multiple styles, demonstrating exceptional talent in traditional, illustration, cartoon, anime styles with vibrant colour work, and fine line techniques. Erwin's versatility and impeccable craftsmanship have quickly established her as one of Brisbane's most accomplished artists. Whether creating bold traditional pieces with clean lines and solid colour, or delicate fine line work requiring precision and steady hands, Erwin delivers consistently outstanding results that showcase her artistic range and technical mastery. His ability to switch seamlessly between bold and delicate work makes his ideal for collectors seeking diverse tattoo styles.

Explore Traditional Artists in Brisbane

7. Jeff Kraatz – Custom Illustrative Designer

📍 Studio: Reap and Sow Tattoo, Hawthorne
📸 Instagram: @kraatztattoo (24K followers)
🎨 Specialization: Illustrative, Custom Design

Jeff Kraatz commands an impressive 24K Instagram following, showcasing his exceptional illustrative tattoo work from Reap and Sow Tattoo in Hawthorne. His custom design approach and illustrative style create unique, artistic tattoos that stand out for their creativity and technical execution. Jeff's portfolio demonstrates a strong understanding of composition, line work, and artistic storytelling, making each piece a distinctive work of art tailored to the individual client. His popularity on social media reflects the quality and appeal of his work, attracting clients seeking custom illustrative tattoos with personality and artistic flair. If you're after a truly one-of-a-kind tattoo with an artistic, hand-drawn aesthetic, Jeff is your artist.

8. Lara (Glitter Slug) – Neo-Traditional & Dotwork

📍 Studio: Independent, Meanjin (Brisbane)
📸 Instagram: @glitterslugtattoo
🎨 Specialization: Neo-Traditional, Fine Line

Lara operates as an independent artist in Brisbane, specializing in neo-traditional, dotwork, and fine line work. Her unique Instagram handle reflects her distinctive artistic personality, and her work showcases meticulous attention to detail and creative design. Lara's combination of neo-traditional bold imagery with delicate dotwork and fine line techniques creates visually striking tattoos with depth and texture. As an independent artist, she offers a personalized, one-on-one tattooing experience where clients receive her undivided creative attention. Her growing reputation makes her one of Brisbane's most exciting emerging talents in contemporary tattooing, perfect for clients who appreciate artistic innovation and intimate studio experiences.

9. Raurie Brown – Fine Line & Celtic Specialist

📍 Studio: CB Ink Tattoo, Lutwyche
📸 Instagram: @drawrie.tattoos
🎨 Specialization: Fine Line, Celtic, Feminine Designs

Raurie specializes in fine line tattoos, using thin and feminine lines with varieties in thickness and patterns to create impressive, delicate work. Her expertise in Celtic tattoo art and feminine design aesthetics has made her a go-to artist for clients seeking elegant, detailed pieces. Raurie's mastery of fine line technique requires exceptional precision and steady hands, skills she demonstrates consistently in her portfolio. Whether creating intricate Celtic knotwork, delicate floral designs, or custom fine line pieces, Raurie's work showcases her artistic sensitivity and technical excellence, making her one of Brisbane's premier fine line specialists. Her understanding of how fine lines age in skin ensures her work maintains its beauty over decades.

Find Fine Line Artists in Brisbane

10. Chelsea – Script & Semi-Realism Expert

📍 Studio: @southtowntattoobrisbane
📸 Instagram: @chelsea_tattooart
🎨 Specialization: Script, Fine Line, Semi-Realism

Chelsea specializes in custom script, fine line, and semi-realism tattoos, with extensive experience and passion for each of these styles. Her attention to detail and artistic ability make her one of Brisbane's most sought-after artists for lettering work and delicate designs. Chelsea's expertise in script work ensures perfectly executed typography with elegant flow and spacing, while her fine line and semi-realism capabilities allow her to create intricate, detailed pieces. Her dedication to creating unique and beautiful custom tattoos, combined with her technical precision, makes her the perfect choice for clients seeking meaningful script pieces or delicate artistic tattoos that tell personal stories through carefully crafted letterforms and imagery.

11. Italo – Traditional & Cover-Up Specialist

📍 Studio: CB Ink Tattoo, Lutwyche
📸 Instagram: @it.tattooart
🎨 Specialization: Traditional, Neo-Traditional, Cover-Ups

Italo is an all-rounder who brings a unique perspective grounded in his deep understanding of both traditional and contemporary tattoo styles. His versatility and technical skills make him particularly excellent at cover-up work, transforming old or unwanted tattoos into fresh, beautiful pieces. Italo's grounding in traditional tattooing fundamentals provides a solid foundation for his creative contemporary interpretations. Whether executing bold traditional pieces, vibrant neo-traditional designs, or challenging cover-up projects, Italo's comprehensive skill set and problem-solving abilities make him one of CB Ink's most reliable and talented artists. If you're looking to transform an old tattoo or start fresh with traditional work, Italo delivers exceptional results.

12. Anastasia – Fine Line Precision

📍 Studio: Independent, Brisbane
📸 Instagram: @anastasia_fineline_tattoo_bris (9K followers)
🎨 Specialization: Fine Line

Anastasia is a dedicated fine line tattoo specialist with 9,077 Instagram followers showcasing her delicate, precise work. Her specialization in fine line tattooing demonstrates her commitment to mastering this technically demanding style that requires exceptional precision and artistic sensitivity. Anastasia's portfolio features elegant, minimalist designs with clean lines and careful detail work. Fine line tattoos have become increasingly popular, and Anastasia has positioned herself as one of Brisbane's go-to artists for this aesthetic. Her focused expertise and growing following reflect the quality and consistency of her refined, sophisticated tattoo work, perfect for clients seeking subtle, elegant designs with contemporary appeal.

13. Scarlett (Mo0ny Ink) – Fine Line Feminine Designs

📍 Studio: Bitter Suite Tattoo, Brisbane
📸 Instagram: @mo0nyink (15K followers)
🎨 Specialization: Fine Line

Scarlett, working under the name Mo0ny Ink with 15K Instagram followers, is a fine line tattooist at Bitter Suite Tattoo. Her substantial social media following reflects the appeal and quality of her delicate fine line work. Scarlett's aesthetic leans toward feminine, delicate designs with clean execution and artistic composition. Her popularity demonstrates the growing demand for fine line tattoos in Brisbane, and her consistent output of beautiful, minimalist pieces has established her as one of the city's rising talents. Scarlett's work appeals particularly to clients seeking subtle, elegant tattoos with contemporary aesthetic sensibility, from tiny symbolic pieces to larger minimalist compositions.

14. Dan Cooper – Americana Traditional

📍 Studio: Old Soul Tattoo Studio, West End
📸 Instagram: @danxcooper
🎨 Specialization: Americana, Traditional

Dan Cooper works at Old Soul Tattoo Studio in West End, specializing in Americana style tattooing. His focus on this classic American tattoo aesthetic showcases bold imagery, strong lines, and vibrant colours characteristic of the genre. Dan's work celebrates traditional American tattoo culture while bringing fresh energy to classic motifs. Old Soul's private tattooing space and personalized one-on-one experience provides the perfect environment for Dan's collaborative approach to creating custom Americana pieces. His dedication to this specific style has made him a destination artist for clients seeking authentic, well-executed American traditional work in Brisbane, from classic eagles and panthers to vintage pin-up designs.

15. Pablo – Micro Realism Master

📍 Studio: CB Ink Tattoo, Lutwyche
📸 Website: @pablo_cbink
🎨 Specialization: Black & Grey Micro Realism, Fine Line, Script

Pablo is renowned for his exceptional black and grey micro realism, fine line, and script tattoos. His specialty in micro realism demonstrates his extraordinary technical precision and artistic skill in creating tiny, detailed realistic images. This demanding style requires exceptional eyesight, steady hands, and meticulous attention to detail—qualities Pablo possesses in abundance. Combined with his expertise in fine line work and script lettering, Pablo offers clients the ability to create delicate, meaningful tattoos with incredible detail despite their small size. His reputation for micro realism makes him one of Brisbane's most specialized and sought-after artists, perfect for clients wanting intricate realism in compact designs.

Browse All Brisbane Tattoo Artists

Brisbane Tattoo Pricing Guide 2026

Understanding Brisbane tattoo pricing helps you budget appropriately and recognize the value of professional work. Here's what to expect across different studios and artists:

Additional Costs: Most studios charge a minimum fee of $80-120 for very small tattoos, even if they take less than an hour. Deposit requirements typically range from $50-200 to secure your appointment.

Brisbane's Top Tattoo Neighbourhoods

Lutwyche: CB Ink Tattoo Hub

Lutwyche has become Brisbane's premium tattoo destination, primarily due to CB Ink Tattoo's exceptional artist roster. Seven of our top 15 artists work at CB Ink, making it a one-stop destination for diverse styles from realism to fine line to traditional work. The studio's reputation for quality and professionalism has made Lutwyche a tattoo pilgrimage site for Brisbane collectors.

West End: Alternative & Traditional

West End maintains Brisbane's alternative tattoo culture, home to legendary studios like Westside Tattoo and Old Soul. The neighbourhood's artistic, bohemian atmosphere attracts artists specializing in traditional, Americana, and Japanese work. West End offers a more relaxed, community-focused tattoo experience compared to CBD studios.

Fortitude Valley: The Valley's Vibrant Scene

Fortitude Valley remains Brisbane's entertainment and nightlife hub, with several tattoo studios catering to walk-ins and impulse tattoos. While not represented in our top 15, the Valley offers convenient city-centre locations and diverse style options, though quality varies more widely than in Lutwyche or West End.

Woolloongabba & Hawthorne: Boutique Studios

These inner-city neighborhoods host premium boutique studios like Balaclava Ink and Reap and Sow Tattoo. Artists here often own their studios, offering personalized experiences and specialized custom work in more intimate settings away from high-traffic areas.

💡 Pro Tip: Use TattooNearMe's location filters to find artists in your preferred Brisbane suburb. Filter by style specialization to match artists to your specific design vision.

How to Choose the Right Brisbane Tattoo Artist

Selecting from Brisbane's top talent requires considering several factors beyond just proximity:

1. Match Style to Artist Specialization

Don't ask a realism specialist to do traditional work, or vice versa. Our ranked list clearly identifies each artist's specialization – choose an artist whose portfolio demonstrates mastery in your desired style. Jake Jones and Alex Davies for realism, Matt Cunnington and Rhys Sharp for Japanese, Isabella and Dan Cooper for traditional.

2. Review Instagram Portfolios Thoroughly

Every artist listed includes their Instagram handle. Spend time reviewing recent work (not just highlights) to ensure consistent quality. Look for healed tattoo photos, which show how the work ages, not just fresh tattoos that look perfect for a few days.

3. Consider Wait Times vs. Urgency

Premium artists like those at CB Ink often book 2-3 months in advance. If you need a tattoo sooner, consider equally talented but less booked artists like independent specialists Lara or Anastasia, or contact studios about cancellation lists.

4. Consultation is Essential

Most Brisbane artists offer free consultations (in-person or virtual). Use this opportunity to discuss your vision, see the studio environment, assess artist communication, and confirm pricing. Never skip the consultation for custom work.

5. Budget Realistically

Quality tattoos aren't cheap, and cheap tattoos aren't quality. For a palm-sized custom piece, budget $300-600 minimum. Full sleeves typically cost $3,000-8,000+ across multiple sessions. Saving for the right artist always beats settling for mediocre work that's permanent.

Frequently Asked Questions: Brisbane Tattoo Artists

Who is the best tattoo artist in Brisbane?

Brisbane's "best" artist depends on your desired style. For realism, Jake Jones and Alex Davies lead. For Japanese work, Matt Cunnington and Rhys Sharp. For fine line, consider Raurie Brown, Anastasia, or Scarlett. For traditional, Isabella and Dan Cooper excel. Use our style-specific rankings to match artists to your vision.

How much do Brisbane tattoo artists charge?

Brisbane tattoo rates range from $120-350/hour depending on artist experience and specialization. Premium studios like CB Ink charge $180-220/hour. Independent artists may charge $150-200/hour. Day rates for large-scale work run $750-1400. Minimum charges typically start at $80-120 for tiny tattoos.

Which Brisbane studio has the best artists?

CB Ink Tattoo in Lutwyche houses 7 of Brisbane's top 15 artists, including realism masters Jake Jones and Pablo, Japanese specialist Rhys Sharp, and fine line expert Raurie Brown. Their diverse roster covers nearly every major tattoo style with exceptional quality across the board.

Do Brisbane tattoo artists do walk-ins?

Most premium Brisbane artists work by appointment only, with bookings 1-3 months in advance. Some studios accept walk-ins for small flash designs, but custom work always requires appointments and consultations. Contact studios directly to ask about walk-in policies and flash availability.

Where do Brisbane tattoo artists post their work?

Instagram is the primary portfolio platform for Brisbane artists. Every artist in our top 15 maintains an active Instagram account showcasing recent work, healed tattoos, and booking information. Following artists on Instagram provides the best view of their current style and availability.

How far in advance should I book a Brisbane tattoo artist?

Premium artists typically book 2-3 months ahead. Highly specialized artists like Matt Cunnington for large Japanese pieces may require 6+ months notice. Mid-tier artists might have availability within 4-6 weeks. Contact artists early, especially during peak season (October-March in Brisbane).

Are Brisbane tattoo prices negotiable?

Established artists rarely negotiate prices. Their rates reflect experience, demand, and studio overhead. However, some studios offer package deals for large projects paid upfront, or junior artist rates for those with flexible style preferences. Never sacrifice quality to save money on permanent body art.

Book Your Brisbane Tattoo Artist Today

Brisbane's tattoo scene offers world-class talent across every style imaginable. Whether you're seeking photorealistic portraits from Jake Jones, traditional Japanese mastery from Matt Cunnington, bold traditional work from Isabella, or delicate fine line from Raurie Brown, this guide connects you with verified, exceptional artists.

Next Steps:

• Review artist Instagram portfolios linked above

• Use TattooNearMe to filter by style and location

• Book consultations with 2-3 artists to compare approaches

• Budget appropriately for quality work ($180-220/hour standard)

• Be patient – great artists are worth the wait

Brisbane's tattoo community continues to grow and evolve, with new talents emerging and established artists refining their crafts. By choosing from our verified top 15, you're ensuring your tattoo investment pays dividends in quality, longevity, and artistic value.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Brisbane Tattoo Artist?

Browse verified artists, view portfolios, read reviews, and book consultations

Explore Brisbane Artists on TattooNearMe