Brian Lai

Tattoo Artist // Visual Storyteller

My introduction to the arts is heavily rooted in street graffiti and mural painting. I’ve always been fascinated by large scale art that is meant to be shared with others and I carry that same mentality to my tattooing.

I have a Bachelor’s degree in graphic design and that education has bled into my tattoo work when it comes to artistic decision-making. In graphic design, the best designs are legible, have a clear message, and are visually impactful. I make sure to apply these same principles in my tattoos.

Let’s collaborate to create a tattoo that tells a story and makes a statement, even from across the room.

FAQs

  • Tattoos are priced by-piece based on size, placement, complexity, and time to finish. Most tattoos are divided into one of 3 categories: Small, Medium, or Large/Multi-Session.

    After completing a contact form, I will contact you for more details to accurately quote you for our project.

  • Deposits are Non-refundable.

    DEPOSITS/CANCELLATIONS: Deposits pay for drawing time and to reserve your appointment. Deposits will also be deducted from the total on the last session as they are factored into the total cost.

    The deposit will be forfeited in full in the event that you:

    (1) No call, no show, or arrive more than 20 minutes late to the appointment

    (2) Cancel or reschedule an appointment without giving at least 48 hours notice

    (3) I reschedule 2+ times for any sessions of the same tattoo

    (4) Cancelling of this specific design/tattoo.

    RESCHEDULING FEES: Rescheduling within the assigned 48 hour requirement will result in a fee. (I understand emergencies happen and will waive these fees on a client-client basis.)

    (1st) $40 added to next session

    (2nd) $60 added to the next session

    (3rd) Forfeits deposit in full.

  • Graphic Illustrative

    • This style is my main speciality. Reminiscent of graphic design, this style utilizes sculpted lines or sometimes no lines at all. They can be blackwork with dark and punchy imagery or full color with buttery color gradients and eye-catching surrealistic subjects.

    • Subjects: surreal ideas, animals, weapons, trippy imagery

    Black and Grey Realism

    • This style is relatively straightforward. You want to create an eye-catching design of one or multiple subjects stitched together into a beautiful composition. This style uses photo references that I interpret on your skin.

    • Subjects: Animals, everyday objects, architecture, themed projects (Greek gods, botanical/floral)

    Anime

    • This style is based in recreating your favorite characters from your favorite anime or cartoon. It generally involves strong black linework and smooth graphic-style shading (cell-shading).

    • Subjects: anime characters, cartoon characters, symbols

    While I specialize and have preference for these projects, I try and stay adaptable and open-minded. I will never turn you away due to style alone. If you see something in my portfolio that you like, please don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a consultation. :-)

  • My aftercare process consists of 3 phases:

    Phase 1: After I apply your waterproof bandage following your session, keep this bandage on for a minimum of 48 hours from tattoo completion.

    Phase 2: After removing the bandage, clean gently with anti-bacterial soap, rubbing off the thin layer of bio-film that accumulates 1-2 times a day for 2-3 days. Make sure to pat it nice and dry and moisturize minimally. (Do not over-moisturize as keeping the tattoo too moist during this phase can encourage bacteria.)

    Phase 3: Once the skin is closed (doesn’t feel raw, starting to peel), you can be more generous with moisturizing the tattoo until it is completely healed (3-5 weeks).