Big Tiger for Bernie

This one's for Bernie; a bold Japanese tiger taking up the whole thigh, snarling mid-turn with bamboo and maple leaves filling the space around it.

You don't need to commit to a full leg to go big. A piece like this shows what's possible working within a single panel, the thigh gives enough room for scale, detail, and a proper background without needing to plan out hip to ankle from day one. And if Bernie ever wants to extend down the leg later, the composition's been left open for it, the placement and flow were planned with that in mind, so it can grow into a bigger piece down the line without needing to be reworked.

Done over two back-to-back day sessions, the piece holds the density and boldness classic Japanese tattooing is known for; heavy black, saturated colour, and a composition that fills the space without crowding it.

If you're thinking about a large-scale piece but aren't ready to commit to a full sleeve or leg, get in touch; we can plan something that stands on its own now and leaves the door open for later.