🎨 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, cultural reverence, and a personal connection to every piece. A resident tattooist at Thirteen Feet Tattooin Circular Quay, Sydney, Shell is known for her bold linework, deep respect for tattoo history, and warm, collaborative approach. Her tattoos combine the strength of classic design with the care of individual storytelling—resulting in meaningful, lasting body art.

Traditional & Japanese Tattoos with Heart

Shell’s work is rooted in the classic tattooing techniques that have defined the craft for generations. Her attention to detail, symbolic understanding, and technical skill allow her to create pieces that are both visually powerful and culturally respectful.

Japanese Tattoo Artist Sydney

With a deep respect for the history and philosophy behind Japanese tattooing, Shell’s designs embody fluidity, symbolism, and strength. Her work often features traditional Japanese motifs such as:

• Koi fish

• Waves and wind bars

• Dragons and tigers

• Peonies and chrysanthemums

These elements flow with the contours of the body, creating tattoos that feel both natural and dynamic. If you’re seeking a Japanese tattoo artist in Sydney, Shell offers work that honours the tradition with modern finesse.

Traditional Tattoos That Stand the Test of Time

Shell also specialises in traditional Western-style tattoos, characterised by bold outlines, solid colour fills, and iconic imagery—including:

• Roses and anchors

• Eagles and skulls

• Flash-inspired designs

Her approach gives this timeless style a personal touch, keeping it both classic and contemporary.

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

Meet Mikey – Apprentice Tattoo Artist at Circular Quay

Mikey is an apprentice tattoo artist based at Thirteen Feet Tattoo's Circular Quay studio, bringing bold designs, a friendly approach, and a genuine passion for traditional tattooing. Whether you’re after a walk-in tattoo or exploring classic flash designs, Mikey is a great choice for those looking for clean, confident tattoos with character.

Building a Foundation in Traditional Tattooing

Mikey is focused on mastering the fundamentals of traditional tattoo style—a time-honoured approach known for its bold outlines, solid colour fills, and timeless motifs. Inspired by vintage flash sheets and old-school street shop energy, his work captures the enduring spirit of classic tattoo culture.

With a high-energy attitude and approachable vibe, Mikey makes the process relaxed and enjoyable—ideal for first-time clients, spontaneous tattoos, or anyone wanting to explore tried-and-true tattoo themes.

Flash Tattoos with Character

Mikey’s flash tattoos are ready to go and full of charm. From panthers and roses to daggers and dice, his designs are made with confidence and clarity—perfect for those looking for something bold, clean, and instantly iconic.

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 Newtown

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 Newtown, 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 awarded to creatives with exceptional global influence. Mertim’s tattooing is grounded in fine art traditions and elevated by storytelling, technical mastery, and emotional depth. His work merges classical training with modern technique, resulting in tattoos that feel both timeless and revolutionary.

Realism Tattoos That Redefine the Medium

Mertim’s tattoos are remarkable for their hyperrealistic depth and refined execution. Whether working in black & grey realism, colour portraiture, or micro realism, he captures minute detail and emotional nuance with the precision of a master painter.

Black & Grey Realism Tattoos – Newtown, Sydney

These monochromatic pieces are ideal for those drawn to lifelike tattoos with dramatic contrast and smooth gradient shading. Mertim often depicts mythological figures, cinematic portraits, and symbolic imagery that create lasting visual impact.

Colour Realism & Portrait Tattoos

With a painter’s sensitivity to tone, lighting, and skin balance, Mertim creates colour realism tattoos that seem to leap from the skin. His portfolio includes vibrant character portraits, historical figures, and mythical beings, brought to life with remarkable clarity and expressive power.

Micro Realism Tattoos

For clients seeking intricate realism in compact form, Mertim offers micro realism tattoos—perfect for finely detailed portraits, objects, or symbols that require precise technical finesse.

Expert in Cover-Up Tattoos

In addition to his fine art-inspired realism, Mertim is highly skilled in the art of cover-up tattoos. He specializes in transforming unwanted or outdated tattoos into stunning new designs, using his mastery of shading, composition, and detail to completely reimagine and conceal the original work. Whether you're looking to refresh an old piece or start anew, Mertim approaches each cover-up with creativity and precision, ensuring the final result is both meaningful and visually compelling.

Mertim is now accepting bookings through our contact page.

Follow him on Instagram @mertimgokalp to 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 the standard 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 respected and acclaimed tattoo studios.

A Journey Rooted in Passion and Precision

Todd’s tattoo career began over 15 years ago, driven by a deep passion for the craft and a commitment to pushing creative boundaries. Known for his large-scale black & grey tattoos, Todd blends soft shading and sharp contrast to deliver rich depth, emotion, and lifelike detail. His portrait tattoos are particularly notable—capturing expression and personality with uncanny realism.

Beyond portraiture, Todd’s work includes bio-mechanical and organic compositions, which merge anatomy and fantasy in seamless, flowing forms. Traditional Japanese tattooing also informs his style, resulting in work that is both technically versatile and artistically bold.

The Birth of Thirteen Feet Tattoo

In May 2017, Todd opened Thirteen Feet Tattoo on King Street in Newtown, with a mission to establish a studio where artistic integrity and client care were paramount. What began as a single shop quickly evolved into a tattoo collective spanning three locations across Newtown, Haymarket, and Circular Quay. Each studio embodies Todd’s unwavering commitment to quality, professionalism, and artistic growth, housing a handpicked team of nineteen artists who represent a wide spectrum of tattoo styles and influences.

Innovating Tattoo Artistry: The Rise of “Aussiental”

Ever the innovator, Todd continues to develop new styles—most notably his hybrid creation, “Aussiental”. This unique fusion combines Australian native flora and fauna with traditional Oriental backgrounds, creating a dynamic tattoo style that reflects both cultural reverence and natural beauty. It’s a visual language that speaks to Todd’s deep connection to both the Australian landscape and tattoo history.

Setting the Gold Standard in Tattooing

As the founder and leader of Thirteen Feet Tattoo, Todd ensures all studios maintain the highest standards of hygiene and professionalism. Every location is NSW Health Department-approved and regularly inspected. Whether it’s a first tattoo or a full-body project, clients can expect a clean, safe, and welcoming environment. Todd’s approach is personal, detail-oriented, and client-focused—qualities that have earned him a reputation as one of Sydney’s best tattoo artists, with recognition that reaches far beyond Australia.

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.