Perth's isolation from the east coast has fostered a unique and tight knit tattoo community. The city punches well above its weight in terms of talent, with artists who could easily compete in any major city worldwide. Studios in Northbridge, Fremantle, and Leederville showcase the diversity of Perth's scene, from classic traditional work to contemporary fine line designs. The west coast lifestyle influences the local aesthetic, with many clients favouring ocean inspired themes and nature motifs. Perth artists often develop distinctive personal styles, unburdened by the trends that sweep through larger cities. This independence has produced some genuinely innovative work and a welcoming community that supports both established and emerging artists.
REAP is showing 30 artists within 100 km of Perth. Most of them work out of Artful Ink Perth, Golden Panther Tattoo, Tattoo Central and 1/219 Main St. The styles that come up most are Illustrative, Neo-Traditional, Anime and American Traditional. Between them there are 90 pieces on show, all posted by the artists themselves.
Northbridge holds most of Perth's shops, packed into a few blocks just north of the CBD. Fremantle has its own separate scene, older and more established, with studios that have been running for decades near the port. Mount Lawley and Leederville sit in between and hold a lot of the city's smaller custom studios, usually appointment only and often just one or two artists. Perth is spread out, so the drive between Fremantle and Mount Lawley is real and worth factoring in if you are booking a long session. Most artists list their studio on their profile, and some work privately rather than from a shopfront.
Yes, booking ahead is advisable for Perth tattoo artists, particularly for custom work. Wait times vary considerably, from a few weeks for some artists to several months for the most in demand names. Perth's smaller scene means there are fewer artists overall, so popular ones fill up quickly. Walk ins may be possible at some studios for smaller flash pieces, but this isn't guaranteed. For custom designs or larger projects, contact your chosen artist at least four to eight weeks in advance. Perth artists are generally responsive and helpful in the booking process, making it straightforward to secure an appointment.
Perth has strong representation across most tattoo styles, with particular strength in traditional American work and bold, classic designs. The city has produced excellent realism artists, both in black and grey and colour. Fine line tattooing has grown significantly, with several Perth artists gaining national recognition in this style. Blackwork and geometric designs are well represented, as are Japanese inspired pieces. Perth's coastal location means ocean and nature themes are popular, and local artists excel at these subjects. The city also has quality artists specialising in script, lettering, and minimalist designs. While smaller than east coast scenes, Perth offers genuine variety.
In Perth's close knit scene, word of mouth is valuable, so ask friends and family for recommendations. Instagram remains the best way to research artists and find styles that resonate with you. Perth's smaller number of studios makes it easier to visit in person and get a feel for each space. Many Perth artists have loyal followings, which speaks to their quality and professionalism. Look for consistency in their portfolios and check for healed work photos. The local tattoo community is generally welcoming, so don't hesitate to reach out with questions. Consultations are a good opportunity to discuss ideas and ensure you connect with your chosen artist.
