Meet Our Tattoo Artists at Irezumi Ink

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Specialties: Anime, Manga, Japanese pop-culture, and custom colour pieces are just a few of the tattoo specialties that Fransje Taylor offers. Her style features colour illustrative, character-driven designs that resonate with a geeky heart.

Fransje, the founder of Irezumi Ink, is the creative force behind its vision. Drawing inspiration from Japanese culture, anime, and manga, her work brings fandoms to life with striking colours, fluid movement, and emotional depth. Influenced by artists like Amy Lockwood and Ben Armer, Fransje has developed a unique approach to tattoo styles.

As a self-taught artist, Fransje is dedicated to creating a welcoming, inclusive studio space—especially for first timers, queer clients, and fellow geeks. Outside the studio, you might find her baking, watching her favorite anime, or planning her next trip to Japan.

"I love tattoos that tell a story. Whether it’s Studio Ghibli or a personal journey, I’m here to bring it to life," she says.

Pronouns: She/her

Instagram: @fransjerawr.tattoo

Specialties: Black and grey realism, Portraits, Dark art, Fine Detail

Style: Monochrome masterpieces with depth, contrast and soul

Ben Armer is our black and grey realism specialist. With a sharp eye for detail and a passion for shadows, texture, and expression, his tattoos capture emotion and intensity like few others can. Whether it’s a hyper realistic animal, a personal portrait, or a dramatic dark art piece, Ben works with precision and care to create something that truly lasts.

With years of experience in custom tattooing, Ben brings a calm, grounded energy to every session. He’s especially passionate about portrait tattoos and personal storytelling through ink, which aligns with the tattoo specialties that define his work. 

“Tattoos don’t have to shout to be powerful- sometimes the quiet ones speak loudest.” 

Pronouns: He/him

Instagram: @armer_tattoo

Style in progress: Black and grey realism, Illustrative tattoos, Soft shading & detail

Vibe: Thoughtful, dedicated, with a growing eye for detail

Amy Lockwood is our talented apprentice, specializing in detailed tattoo specialties. With a love for soft shading, fine details, and storytelling through subtle contrast, she’s already showing a natural flair for creating beautiful, expressive tattoos.

Learning under the mentorship of senior artists like Ben Armer and Fransje Taylor, Amy is constantly evolving her craft—from understanding skin flow to refining depth and realism. Clients love her calm energy and focus on creating a relaxed, respectful tattoo experience.

“Every day I get to tattoo is a dream. I’m so grateful to be part of this studio and excited to grow into the artist I want to be.”

Pronouns: She/Her

Instagram: @lockwood.tattoo