Gay tattoo artists

Known for her emotive and hypnotic linework designs, self-taught queer tattoo artist Mab Matiere Noire is changing the landscape of modern tattooing through her bold single needle designs. Lauder offers a safe and inviting space for self-expression and permanent art.

These uncomfortable experiences have encouraged LGBTQ studios to focus on atmospheres that feel non-threatening and calm, with artists emphasizing consent and bodily respect, as well as personal warmth. Known for their broken chain link fence motifs, ethereal Blackwork cherubs, and colorful single-needle creations, Lee is a high-demand tattoo artist for many queer collectors in the Toronto area.

As queer individuals, some of us have experienced cultural and interpersonal trauma; trauma which is often stored throughout our bodies, or which may revolve around our bodies, making the process of being tattooed feel extra vulnerable and complicated at times.

The images come from the recently published book Queer Tattoo, which features 50 international queer tattoo artists.

Galen Bryce : Brooklyn, NY. Rio Juniper Wolf creates warm and whimsical Traditional tattoos equipped with Surrealist accents and brimming with a notion of youthful vibrancy. Proclaim your pride and come explore our list of the top queer tattoo artists from around the world!.

Thankfully, through the powerful network of support fostered by queer tattooers, and the necessary creation of LGBTQ-owned spaces, many artists and clients who may have otherwise avoided tattooing can now approach shops feeling comfortable and understood.

Geri Kramer : Victoria, BC. Tattooing sinceGeri has become a beacon of inspiration within the Trans community, candidly documenting her journey on Instagram, while sharing her thoughts and advice with followers. Rich with elements reminiscent of traditional Asian art and expressionism, Mab creates queer-positive tattoos intended to wear like works of fine art.

Rick Schenk : Dallas, TX. Tattooing sinceRick enjoys creating all-black pieces spanning the styles of Chicano, Black and Grey Realism, and Fineline.

15 Best LGBTQ Tattoo : Discover inspiring gay tattoo ideas that celebrate LGBTQ+ identity! From subtle rainbow accents to bold pride flag designs, explore meaningful symbols, empowering quotes, and artistic expressions that honor love, acceptance, and authenticity

Gay cis-gendered male tattoo artist at Blood Moon Tattoo Syndicate in Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaPronouns: he/him Philadelphia-based tattoo artist Kevin Roy specializes in vibrant, bold neotraditional tattoos with pop-culture and traditional influences. Dedicated to creating a space of radical tenderness, Mab believes that trust and comfortability are paramount to the queer tattooing experience.

Lauder offers a wide array of customizable flash centered on homoeroticism, drag culture, and female heroes. Tattoo by Galen Bryce GalenBryce texttattoo flametattoo qttr queertattoo. Focusing on emotive and singular motifs like thorns, palm leaves, and cut-off braids, Tine crafts an elegant world rife with sentiments of sorrow, beauty, evolution, and healing.

5 LGBTQIA Artists You : I’ve always had a weird relationship with any street tattoo or piercing places

Charline Bataille : Montreal, QC. Lauder : Vancouver, BC. Working in a contemporary and Illustrative style, queer and non-binary tattooer Mr. Lauder crafts refined yet edgy designs depicting male erotica, gay icons, and personal symbols of strength. For some, the shared sense of queerness alone can transform what once felt like a daunting process into a cozy and safe experience to remember.

Tattooing is an intimate process involving trust, which is why many in the LGBTQ community choose to connect with artists who specialize in working with queer persons. Welcoming all skin tones, body types, and gender identities, Rio Juniper Wolf prides themselves on cultivating a tattooing space that feels inclusive, conscious, and safe.

Ciara Havishya : Calgary, AB. Whether they are composing traditional Trajva tattoos, Fineline floral chest pieces, or charming tiger portraits, Ciara brings an unparalleled level of respect, care, and authenticity to each design.

While there are a great number of non-queer tattoo shops working to foster an atmosphere of inclusivity, many queer individuals have experienced discomfort when immersed in the hyper-masculine, and at times, aggressive culture of certain street shops.