Tall ship for Paule Black and gry tattoo

Featured Artist: Mickey Schlick
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An Illustrated Tall Ship Battles the Storm

This custom tattoo by Mickey Schlick is a powerful, graphic scene. It shows a classic tall ship being tested by towering waves and a stormy sky. The piece was created for Paule, capturing that feeling of perseverance against the elements, a concept many of us in Montana can understand.

The style is bold illustration, not strict realism. This gives Mickey the freedom to emphasize the ship's dramatic lines and the chaotic energy of the sea. The composition flows perfectly with the body's contour, making the side panel feel alive with motion.

You can see the careful detail in the ship's rigging and sails. Elements like a celestial body in the background anchor the nautical theme. This is a great example of the custom, story-driven work we do at Montana Tattoo Company in Missoula.

The Work: Bold Lines and Graphic Impact

Mickey approached this as an illustrated tattoo. The challenge was balancing dense black areas with the fine line work needed for the ship's details. It’s a style that reads clearly from a distance but holds intricate interest up close.

The shading uses strong contrasts to create depth and drama, especially in the turbulent water and clouds. This isn't subtle gray-wash; it's defined, graphic blackwork designed to stand the test of time. The goal was a timeless piece that feels both classic and fiercely personal.

Book With Mickey Schlick

If you're looking for a custom illustrated or blackwork tattoo in Missoula, talk to Mickey. He specializes in creating bold, graphic pieces with strong narratives. To start your own custom tattoo project at Montana Tattoo Company, give us a call at 406-626-8688.