Dublin, Ireland

Traditional Japanese Tattoo dublin

A quiet workshop dedicated strictly to large-scale Japanese tattooing and original paintings. Built on classic lineage, executed with discipline.

Moody analog photography of black sumi ink grinding on a stone slate, dark green atmospheric lighting, high-contrast rich tones, 35mm
Moody analog photography of black sumi ink grinding on a stone slate, dark green atmospheric lighting, high-contrast rich tones, 35mm
The Lineage

Classic Japanese Tattooing

Wabori is a lifelong commitment to the body. Every composition is drawn to respect the natural flow of muscle and bone, utilizing classic motifs that remain powerful over decades.

The same rigorous discipline applies to heavy paper. Sumi ink paintings and skin work share a single brushstroke philosophy, crafted to endure.

About me

About Me – My Journey into Japanese Tattooing

Hello everyone,

I’d like to share a brief introduction about my journey as a tattoo artist and my vision of Japanese tattooing.

My interest in tattoos began during my teenage years. At that time, tattooed people were still quite rare, and I was fascinated every time I saw one.

Naturally, I started studying tattoo designs, initially drawn to traditional Western tattooing. Before long, however, I found myself completely immersed in the world of traditional Japanese tattooing.

As I dug deeper, I discovered a vast world of history, symbolism, and artistic traditions. Back then, finding reliable information wasn’t easy, and perhaps it was that sense of mystery that made me fall in love with it even more. Fourteen years later, I still feel like I’m discovering something new every day.

Personally, I’m drawn to natural and organic subjects. I’ve always loved animals, which is why I especially enjoy tattooing animals, flowers, and plants within the framework of traditional Japanese tattooing.

My work is heavily inspired by the Kansai style of Japan, known for its bold backgrounds, strong compositions, and large, readable subjects that flow naturally with the body.

My vision of Japanese tattooing is that it should be bold, easy to read, harmonious with the body, and powerful in its overall impact. Every element should have a purpose and contribute to a timeless composition.

Japanese tattooing is also a journey. It requires patience, commitment, and trust, but in return it gives you something truly special—something that stays with you for life. Just like many of the greatest things in life.

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning a little about me and that my story has inspired you in your own journey into Japanese tattooing. If you decide to begin that journey, I’d be honored to guide you every step of the way.

Thank you for reading.

— Claudio Oldswords

Tebori tattoo dublin

The Work

Tattoos and Paintings

Wabori Tattoos

Sumi Paintings

Large-scale traditional body suits, backpieces, and sleeves. Focused on bold black lines and rich color packing.

Original paintings hand-drawn on heavy textured paper. Classic mythological motifs rendered in traditional sumi ink.

Inquiries

By Appointment Only

Consultations and tattooing are conducted in a quiet, focused environment. Reach out to discuss large-scale projects or original artwork commissions.