tribal negatice space portrait black and grey surrealism tattoo
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Black and Grey Surrealist Portrait with Tribal Elements
This piece by James Strickland at Montana Tattoo Company is a masterclass in contrast. It's a black and grey realism portrait, but it's framed by bold, abstract tribal patterns. The subject's face is rendered with lifelike detail, creating a powerful focal point.
The surrealism comes from the integration. The tribal designs aren't just a background. They flow from the portrait itself, suggesting headdress, hair, or energy. This blend of a realistic human element with symbolic, graphic art creates a unique tension. It's a custom tattoo design that feels both ancient and modern.
James Strickland is known for this kind of innovative work in Missoula. He takes a classic style like black and grey realism and pushes it into new, personal territory. The use of negative space within the tribal areas makes the inked portions even more striking.
The Technical Work Behind the Style
Executing this tattoo required expertise in two distinct styles. The portrait demands a realism tattoo artist's skill with subtle grey wash shading to build form and depth. A single pass wouldn't achieve this level of dimension.
Meanwhile, the tribal elements require a completely different approach. They need solid, clean blackwork and sharp, confident lines. The challenge was making these two techniques—soft realism and hard graphic—feel like one cohesive piece. The negative space was carefully planned to link them without overcrowding the skin.
Book a Custom Tattoo with James Strickland
If you are looking for a custom black and grey tattoo in Missoula that goes beyond the ordinary, James Strickland is the artist to see. He specializes in blending realism with surreal and graphic elements for truly personal work. To discuss your idea for a surrealism tattoo, contact Montana Tattoo Company in Missoula at 406-626-8688 to book your consultation.
