If you’re looking for a tattoo artist in Sydney who fuses hyperrealism, surrealism, and fine art techniques, Antone El is an exceptional choice. As a resident artist at Thirteen Feet Tattoo’s Haymarket studio, Antone brings a painter’s eye to tattooing—blending black & grey realism, colour realism, and illustrative styles with extraordinary depth and emotional nuance.
Drawing on his background in oil painting and a global artistic journey, Antone has become one of the most distinctive and sought-after tattoo artists in Sydney, known for work that captures both technical mastery and visual storytelling.
From Dublin to Sydney: Antone’s Artistic Journey
Originally from Dublin, Ireland, Antone began tattooing in 2014, building on a solid foundation in traditional oil painting. This fine art training gives his tattoos a unique painterly feel—rich in tone, texture, and realism. Since relocating to Australia, he has become a standout talent in Sydney’s tattoo scene, offering work that’s both deeply artistic and technically precise.
Specialising in Black & Grey Realism, Colour Realism, Portraits, Blackwork & Illustrative Tattoos
Black & Grey Realism
Antone’s black & grey realism tattoos are known for their extraordinary depth and contrast. Whether it’s a surreal landscape, an animal portrait, or a dark, symbolic concept, his attention to detail brings each piece to life.
Colour Realism
His colour realism tattoos feature vibrant hues and lifelike shading that make the design pop off the skin with a painterly quality.
Portrait Tattoos
Known for his hyperrealistic portraits, Antone excels at capturing likenesses with incredible detail, from human portraits to animal portraits.
Blackwork Tattoos
Antone is also skilled in creating bold blackwork tattoos, where contrast and line work create striking, dynamic designs.
Illustrative Tattoos
For those seeking something a bit more creative, Antone’s illustrative tattoos often blend realism with surreal elements, creating a unique fusion of styles that tell a powerful story.
Thirteen Feet Tattoo – Haymarket, Sydney
Antone works from Thirteen Feet Tattoo in Darling Square, Haymarket—a leading studio known for some of the best realism tattoo artists in Sydney. Whether you’re visiting from Circular Quay, the CBD, or elsewhere in New South Wales, the studio offers a professional, welcoming environment ideal for first tattoos and large-scale custom pieces alike. If you’re searching for a Haymarket tattoo shop, or wondering where to get a portrait tattoo in Sydney, Antone is a top recommendation.
Ready to bring your tattoo vision to life with a master of realism? Whether you're looking for a hyperrealistic portrait, a surreal black & grey design, or a vivid colour realism piece, Antone’s attention to detail and artistic approach will exceed your expectations. Antone is now accepting bookings through our contact page.
Follow him on Instagram @antone__el to see his latest work, get behind-the-scenes glimpses from the studio, and stay updated on special projects.