Kolkata, the city of joy, is a place where tradition and modernity dance together. Riddled with a bustling and vibrant tapestry; tattooing is among the myriad of subcultures navigating the alleys of the city. True to the city's spirit, tattooing here is the confluence of tradition and modernism. When traditional arts - motifs and folklore - meet modern (geometric, realism, and watercolor), the result is a visual delight. In this blog, we try to zero in on the top 10 tattoo artists of Kolkata from Aliens Tattoo Studio for you deserve the best artists to tell permanent stories.
Contents
Overview
Brief history of tattooing in Kolkata
Growing popularity and trends in Kolkata in 2024
Criteria for selecting a tattoo artist
Top tattoo artists of Kolkata in 2024
Importance of choosing the right tattoo artist
Conclusion
FAQs
Additional Topics to cover
Top tattoo artists in Kolkata in 2024
Overview
Long considered the cultural capital of India, Kolkata has embraced tattooing as an avenue to preach personal stories. From reclaiming Indian artistry to harmonizing its artistic tentacles with the world, the tattooing industry in Kolkata has seen a renaissance. The tattooing in Kolkata, which was considered tribalistic, is now an avenue for artistic endeavour.
Brief History of Tattooing in Kolkata
Tattooing as a traditional practice to cover the body with natural dyes has been deeply woven into the fabric of the Indian psyche. The recorded history of tattooing in Kolkata, or the greater Bengal area, traces its roots to the Santhal, Munda, and Oraon tribes. Riddling their bodies was not merely ornamental; it symbolized social status, tribal affiliation, or apotropaic marks. Santhals engraved "Sikkas small, coin-sized insignia on their foreheads; emblematic of major milestones—puberty, marriage, and bravery.
Once venerated as cultural insignias, Britishers relegated it to lower socioeconomic strata, hence bringing down a seismic shift to Kolkata’s once vibrant tapestry. The Britisher's zeal to impose Western ideals made them introduce new techniques and tools.
After gaining independence, the urge to claim once that was glorious swept the Indian psyche. It gave the necessary momentum and courage to artists to reclaim the Indian cultural ethos. The big push came in the post-liberalization era, intricately weaving Indian society with that of the world. Once that was afar is now on shore.
Growing Popularity and Trends in 2024
The marriage of tradition and contemporary gave birth to the style that rules the roost now. The tattoo artists in Kolkataare dabbling with contemporary tools, techniques, and tattooing styles:
Bengali TraditionInk masters in Kolkata keep their Bengali tradition alive while embracing neo-traditional and contemporary tattoo styles.
Global InfluenceInternational exposure has inspired Kolkata's tattoo designs, blending tradition with modernity in unique and innovative ways.
Modern TechniquesTattoo artists are incorporating contemporary techniques such as organic inks, digital tools, virtual reality, and 3D printing.
Diverse StylesPortfolios of Kolkata tattoo artists showcase a variety of modern styles: minimalism, dotwork, linework, realism, and geometric tattoos.
Criteria for selecting a tattoo artist
Deciding on an artist who will engrave and break your skin to bring to life the beliefs long withheld is of paramount priority. Sometimes thought is opaque, or sometimes the design does not meet the merit when put onto the body. A large number of tattooed people regret their tattoos for their lack of artistic brilliance. Here is how you can ensure your tattoos are not marred by these experiences.
PortfolioThey say a picture is worth a thousand words. Well, not for nothing. This is the living memory of the artist’s flair, creativity, and fine craftsmanship. Simply stroll through their Instagram profile or any visible portfolio aggregator platform to witness their mastery.
ExpertiseTattoo artists excel in different styles, such as realism, line art, dotwork, mandala, and portraits. It’s crucial to choose one skill in the style you want. Check their portfolio to ensure they specialize in your preferred design. A capable artist will bring your vision to life with precision and detail.
ExperienceAlbert Einstein said, “The only source of knowledge is experience”. And, we couldn’t agree more. The art of repetition brings finesse and effortlessness, and there is no alternative for it. Period.
Client ReviewsThese are the words of those who have been there and done that. They speak of the artist's professionalism and collaborative and creative spirit. How good they are at churning out inspiring work day in and day out, with great care and efficiency.
Top 10 Tattoo Artists in Kolkatafrom Aliens Tattoo Studio:
1. Ganesh Biswakarma
Renowned for detailed Realism and Colour tattoos styles, Ganesh fuses his creativity with modern contemporary practices. With a deep-seated passion for art and a keen eye for detail, he transforms each client’s story into a compelling visual narrative.
Ameet Babrekar, who turned to Aliens Tattoo to realize her vision of body art, has to say this: "Iwent to AT’s Kolkata studio with just a conceptual idea. Ganesh is extremely creative to have beautifully visualized that idea and to create a design that I loved right at the very first glance."
His ability to blend different styles seamlessly, his precision and artistic flair, and an unyielding passion for creativity have earned him a loyal clientele.
Tattoo Style:Realism tattoos and Colour tattoos
Check Ganesh Biswakarma's portfolio here
Contact: 9833065209
2. Binod Tamang
Specializing in Brushstrokes and Realism tattoo styles, Binod is top choice for tattoo aficionados of Kolkata. His journey into tattoo artistry began with a deep fascination for the interplay of form and detail. Binod’s brushstroke style tattoos are a vibrant dance of imagination, turning skin into dynamic canvases of expression.
His realism tattoos exhibit his mastery of shading and contrast, bringing designs to life with stunning accuracy.His dedication to perfection has earned him a loyal clientele and a revered place in the tattoo community.
Tattoo Style:Brushstrokes tattoos and Realism tattoos
Check Binod Tamang's portfolio here
Contact: 9833065209
3. Anamika Dakua
Anamika Dakua’s journey into tattooing began with a simple visit to a studio in Kolkata, where she discovered her passion for the craft. Captivated by the process, she decided to pursue tattooing as a career, eventually enrolling at Aliens Tattoo School. Anamika has honed her skills across a range of styles while she masters the Traditional tattoo style. Her dedication to refining her craft has fostered strong bonds within the team, contributing to her growth as an artist in the ever-evolving world of tattooing.
Tattoo Style:Traditional tattoos
Check Anamika Dakua's portfolio here
Contact: 9833065209
4. Kubera Barik
Kubera Barik’s passion for art led him from painting to tattooing, backed by a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Visual Arts. His versatility shines through in his expertise in realism and abstract tattoo styles. With years of experience, Kubera has mastered the balance between creativity and precision, crafting unique tattoos that leave a lasting impression. As a tattoo artist at Aliens, he continues to push artistic boundaries, ensuring each design is both meaningful and beautifully executed.
Tattoo Style:Realism tattoos and Abstract tattoos
Check Kubera Barik's portfolio here
Contact: 9833065209
5. Aman Vishwakarma
Aman Vishwakarma transitioned from India’s vibrant graffiti scene to tattooing, where he now excels at Aliens Tattoo. His expertise lies in Realism tattoo style, showcasing his versatility and creativity. Trained at Aliens Tattoo School, Aman has developed a keen eye for detail, bringing life and depth to every tattoo he creates. His passion for storytelling through art is evident in each piece, as he continues to make his mark in the tattooing world, blending precision and artistic expression.
Tattoo Style:Realism tattoos
Check Aman Vishwakarma's portfolio here
Contact: 9833065209
6. Siddhesh Gawde
Siddhesh Gawde is renowned for his exceptional skill in Realism and Hyper-realism tattoos, creating art that feels almost lifelike on the skin. His expertise lies in capturing beautiful details, from subtle facial expressions to realistic textures, making each piece a powerful, immersive work of art. Siddhesh’s dedication to realism has earned him a loyal following among clients who seek tattoos with depth, precision, and an eye-catching, true-to-life quality.
Tattoo Style: Realism and Hyper-realism tattoos
Check Siddhesh Gawde's portfolio here
Contact: 9833065209
7. Augustin
Augustin is a skilled tattoo artist celebrated for his talent in realism, freehand, and color tattoos. His mastery of realistic art brings incredible detail and life to his work, making each tattoo feel vivid and captivating. Augustin’s strength in freehand design allows him to create custom tattoos that flow naturally with the body’s contours, giving each piece a personal touch. His expertise with color adds another dimension to his art, blending shades beautifully to make every tattoo pop with vibrancy and depth.
Tattoo Style: Realism and Hyper-realismtattoos
Check Augustin's portfolio here
Contact: 9833065209
8. Susmit Dhavan
Susmit Dhavan is an exceptional tattoo artist known for his expertise in realism and neo-traditional styles. His realism tattoos are meticulously detailed, capturing lifelike textures and expressions that give each piece a powerful presence. Alongside his realistic work, Susmit excels in neo-traditional tattoos, blending bold lines and vibrant colors with a modern twist on traditional tattoo elements. His unique ability to master both styles makes him a popular choice for clients seeking artwork that is dynamic, expressive, and visually captivating.
Tattoo Styles:Realism and Neo-Traditional Tattoos
Check Susmit Dhavan's portfolio here
Contact: 098330 65209
9. Bhakti Thakkar
Bhakti Thakkar is an accomplished tattoo artist known for her expertise in color tattoos, bringing vibrant and eye-catching designs to life on the skin. Her skillful use of color creates a sense of depth and dimension, making each tattoo pop with energy and character. Bhakti’s clients appreciate her ability to blend colors seamlessly and create designs that are both bold and harmonious. Whether it’s a vivid floral piece or a colorful portrait, her work reflects a passion for creating tattoos that leave a lasting impression.
Tattoo Styles: Color Tattoos
Check Bhakti Thakkar's portfolio here
Contact: 98330 65209
10. Bhargav Eppilli
Bhargav specializes in creating beautifully detailed small tattoos that carry a big impact. Known for his precision and eye for detail, Bhargav crafts each piece with care, ensuring even the tiniest designs are rich with meaning and artistry. His clients love his ability to capture intricate details within small-scale tattoos, making them perfect for those seeking subtle, refined, and personal artwork. Bhargav’s work shows that even the smallest tattoos can be expressive and powerful.
Tattoo Styles: Small Tattoos
Check Bhargav Eppilli's portfolio here
Contact: 98330 65209
Importance of Choosing the Right Tattoo Artist
Choosing the right tattoo artist is vital for ensuring you get the best possible outcome. Not only do a skilled artist bring your vision to life, but they also ensure that the entire process—from the design to aftercare, is handled with the utmost professionalism. A great tattoo artist will listen to your ideas, offer suggestions based on their experience, and work with you to create a tattoo that is both beautiful and meaningful.
Procedure for Reservation & Consultation
Here’s how to get started on your tattoo journey with one of Kolkata’s top artists:
Contact the ArtistMost tattoo artists in Kolkata can be contacted through Instagram, WhatsApp, or phone. Reach out with your design idea, and the artist will guide you on the next steps.
ConsultationMany artists offer a consultation (either online or in-person) to discuss your design, placement, size, and pricing. This is an excellent opportunity to get to know the artist and ensure that their style matches your vision. Making an appointment for a tattoo and holding a consultation are essential steps to ensure a successful and easy tattoo experience. (Insert- consultation video)
BookingOnce the design and pricing are finalized, most artists will ask for a deposit to secure your appointment.
Tattoo DayOn the day of your appointment, arrive well-rested, and hydrated, and follow any pre-tattoo care instructions provided by the artist.
Conclusion
The rich history, culture, and tradition of Kolkata are present and influence the top tattoo artists in Kolkata. Their insatiable thirst to hone their craft and employ the most modern tattoo design practices is a testament to bringing their A-game at all times. No wonder tattoo aficionados are finding it easy to make the invisible visible by exposing their thoughts in the form of body art.
FAQs
How can I choose the right tattoo artist in Kolkata?
What should I consider before getting a tattoo in Kolkata?
Are these tattoo artists available for custom designs?
How do I book an appointment with a top tattoo artist in Kolkata?
What is the average cost of getting a tattoo from a top artist in Kolkata?
How can I ensure a safe and hygienic tattoo experience?
Can I see examples of their previous work?
What should I do if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
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Disclaimer: This list has been created with the best intentions; if any studio or artist has concerns or objections, please email us at getinked@alienstattoos.com, and we will promptly address removal requests as needed.