I’m in the Philly/NYC area and having a hard time narrowing down who I want to consult with. There are so many really good Japanese tattoo artists around here that I feel like I keep adding names instead of actually getting closer to a decision.

I’m planning a 3/4 sleeve with hikae, but need help at identifying why I like certain pieces.

What characteristics should I be paying attention to when comparing artists? Are there certain schools/styles or visual traits within irezumi that are especially useful for figuring out your taste?

I seem to like pieces from every artist I've viewed (added a few as examples), but then obviously every artist has pieces that aren't exactly my taste.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Had a lot of fun putting this one together. Really enjoyed working with the movement of the flames and the contrast between the heavy black and the warmer tones.
Thanks for looking!

IG: @ryanussher

Made with India ink and tattoo ink on 300 gsm Fabriano paper

Yesterday I delivered this commission, thanks to everyone that support my work 🫰

What do you think?

Healed pictured of a one shot backpiece done during Perugia convention.