MICHI
TATTOO ARTIST VANCOUVER, BC
About Michi
With over 12 years of experience, Michi approaches tattooing as a form of art rather than simply a service. His work combines realism, abstract elements, bold composition, and influences gathered through years of creating and traveling internationally.
Based in Vancouver, BC, he focuses on creating original pieces designed specifically for each client.
SPECIALTIES
SPECIALTIES
TRASH POLKA
My approach to Trash Polka is deeply influenced by punk — translating its raw, distorted sound and rebellious energy into visual art.
I find beauty in things often seen as broken or imperfect: abandoned places, cracked surfaces, decay, distressed textures, and controlled chaos. I combine these elements with realism, typography, abstract forms, and bold red and black to create tattoos that feel raw, expressive, and uniquely my own.
REALISM
Portraiture is at the heart of my realism work. I love capturing the expression, character, and emotion of a subject — whether it’s a person or an animal.
But for me, realism goes beyond recreating an image. I want to understand the story behind the subject and why it matters to the person wearing it. My goal is to capture not only the likeness, but the emotion, memory, and meaning behind it.
COVER-UPS
I approach cover-ups as a transformation rather than simply hiding an old tattoo. By working with the existing piece through careful composition, contrast, texture, and placement, I create a new design that feels intentional and complete.
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
6 TATTOO AWARDS
Recognized at tattoo conventions across Europe and North America.
2024 — Axone Tattoo Show | France
1st Place — Best Realism
2019 — East Flanders Tattoo Convention | Belgium
1st Place — Best Portrait
2019 — Portland Tattoo Arts Convention | USA
1st Place — Best Color Portrait
2019 — Portland Tattoo Arts Convention | USA
2nd Place — Best Cover-Up
2019 — JKL Tattoo Convention | Finland
2nd Place — Best Graphic
2019 — LA Tattoo Convention | USA
Best Front Chest Piece
START YOUR PROJECT
Have an idea for your next tattoo? Tell me about your concept, placement, approximate size, and the story behind it. I’m always interested in creating work that feels personal and unique to the individual.