🎨 Meet Shell – Traditional and Japanese Tattoo Specialist in Circular Quay

If you're drawn to the timeless elegance of traditional or Japanese tattoo styles, Shell is an artist who brings authenticity, passion, and personal connection to every piece. A resident tattooist at Thirteen Feet Tattoo in Circular Quay, Sydney, Shell is known for her bold linework, cultural reverence, and a warm, collaborative approach. Her work combines the strength of classic designs with the care of individual storytelling - making each tattoo a meaningful, lasting statement.

Mastering Traditional & Japanese Tattoo Styles

Shell’s tattoos are rooted in classic techniques that have stood the test of time. Her eye for detail, appreciation for symbolism, and technical precision allow her to create work that is as aesthetically powerful as it is deeply respectful of the traditions it draws from. With a strong respect for the rich history behind Japanese tattooing, Shell creates pieces that honour both traditional themes and their deep symbolic meanings. From koi fish and waves to tigers, dragons, and peonies - her Japanese tattoos flow with the body and carry a powerful sense of movement and meaning. Furthermore, Shell’s traditional tattoos showcase bold lines, solid fill, and iconic imagery - from roses and anchors to eagles, skulls, and flash-inspired motifs. With a modern polish and a love for storytelling, she keeps this classic style feeling fresh and personal.

Shell is now accepting bookings through our contact page.

Follow her on Instagram @shelltattoos to see her latest work, get behind-the-scenes glimpses from the studio, and stay updated on special projects.

🎨 Spotlight on Mikey – Traditional Tattoo Enthusiast in Circular Quay

Mikey is an apprentice tattoo artist at Thirteen Feet Tattoo's Circular Quay studio. With a passion for traditional tattooing, Mikey is available for walk-ins, offering bold, clean designs and a friendly, down-to-earth approach to everything he does. Open to all styles, he is the perfect choice for spontaneous tattoos or exploring classic flash designs.

Mikey is focused on building a strong foundation in traditional tattooing - a style known for its bold outlines, solid colour fills, and timeless appeal. Inspired by vintage flash and street shop classics, he brings high energy and genuine enthusiasm to each piece, making the experience just as memorable as the tattoo itself. Mikey’s flash designs are full of character and ready to go, he is now now accepting bookings through our contact page.

Follow him on Instagram @honestmick to see his latest work, get behind-the-scenes glimpses from the studio, and stay updated on special projects.

🎨Introducing Mertim Gokalp – Master of Realism in Circular Quay

Fine Art Meets Hyperrealism in Tattoo Form

An award-winning tattooist and accomplished fine art painter, Mertim brings a museum-quality approach to every piece he creates at Thirteen Feet Tattoo in Circular Quay, Sydney. Originally from Istanbul and now internationally recognised for his artistic achievements, Mertim holds a Fine Arts degree and was granted a Distinguished Talent visa by the Australian Government - an honour reserved for creatives with exceptional global influence. His tattoo work is grounded in fine art traditions and elevated by storytelling, technical mastery, and emotional impact.

Realism Tattoos That Redefine the Medium

Mertim’s tattoos are stunning in their depth and realism. Whether working in black & grey, colour realism, portraiture, or micro realism, he captures minute details and subtle expressions with the skill of a master painter.

Black & Grey Realism Tattoos Sydney

These monochromatic masterpieces are perfect for anyone seeking lifelike images with dramatic contrast and soft, smooth shading. Mertim’s black & grey realism work often features mythological figures, cinematic portraits, and symbolic scenes with powerful presence.

Colour Realism & Portraiture

With a painter’s eye for tone and balance, Mertim creates colour realism tattoos that pop off the skin. From vibrant character portraits to historical icons and mythological beings, his ability to bring colour to life is second to none.

Micro Realism Tattoos

For those looking for intricate detail on a smaller scale, micro realism offers maximum impact in compact form. These tattoos are perfect for highly detailed portraiture, objects, or symbolic motifs that require precision and finesse.

Mertim is now accepting bookings through our contact page.

Follow him on Instagram @mertimgokalp see his latest work, get behind-the-scenes glimpses from the studio, and stay updated on special projects.

🎨Meet Todd Bailey – Master of Realism and Founder of Thirteen Feet Tattoo

Todd Bailey: Visionary Tattoo Artist & Founder of Thirteen Feet Tattoo

When it comes to setting standards in Australia’s tattoo scene, Todd Bailey is a name synonymous with artistic excellence, innovation, and leadership. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Todd is a world-renowned tattoo artist and the founder of Thirteen Feet Tattoo, one of Sydney’s most acclaimed tattoo studios.

A Journey Rooted in Passion and Precision

Todd’s tattoo journey began over 15 years ago, fuelled by a deep love for the craft and a drive to push creative boundaries. Known for his large-scale black & grey pieces, Todd expertly blends soft shading with sharp contrasts to create depth, emotion, and lifelike imagery. His portrait tattoos, in particular, stand out for their intricate detail and emotional resonance - capturing expressions and personalities with uncanny realism. His portfolio also includes striking bio-mechanical and organic designs, merging anatomy and fantasy in seamless, flowing compositions. Combined with traditional Japanese influences, Todd’s style is both technically versatile and artistically bold.

The Birth of Thirteen Feet Tattoo

In May 2017, Todd opened the doors to Thirteen Feet Tattoo on King Street, Newtown, with a mission to create a studio that puts both artistic integrity and client care at the forefront. What began as a single shop quickly grew into a tattoo collective now spanning three locations across Newtown, Haymarket, and Circular Quay. Each studio reflects Todd’s commitment to quality, professionalism, and artistic growth - housing a hand-selected team of nineteen talented artists representing a broad range of tattoo styles.

Innovating Tattoo Artistry: The Rise of “Aussiental”

Todd continues to push creative boundaries with his evolving tattoo style. One of his latest innovations is a hybrid approach he’s coined “Aussiental” - a unique fusion of Australian native flora and fauna with traditional Oriental backgrounds. This fresh take reflects both his technical range and his deep appreciation for the cultural and natural diversity of Australia. Todd’s work captures the spirit of two worlds in one cohesive visual language.

Setting the Gold Standard in Tattooing

As the leader of Thirteen Feet Tattoo, Todd ensures every studio maintains the highest levels of professionalism and hygiene. All locations are NSW Health Department approved and routinely inspected. Whether you’re getting your first tattoo or adding to a growing collection, clients can expect a clean, safe, and welcoming environment. Todd’s approach is personal, precise, and always client-focused - qualities that have cemented his reputation as one of the best tattoo artists in Sydney and beyond.

Connect with Todd Bailey

Todd Bailey currently works across all Thirteen Feet Tattoo locations in Sydney. To explore his portfolio or book a consultation, visit thirteenfeettattoo.com or follow him on Instagram at @toddbaileytattoo. Todd is now accepting bookings through our contact page.