Tattooing, a dynamic and evolving form of body art, has captivated enthusiasts around the globe. Recognizing the growing number of tattoo aficionados, we have compiled a list of the top 10 influential tattoo artists in the world. This article provides a glimpse into the lives and careers of these artists, offering readers a deeper understanding of their contributions to the art of tattooing.
Renowned tattoo artists have consistently set trends that resonate with tattoo lovers everywhere. Today’s generation of tattoo artists brings a distinctive flair, continuously reinventing designs under the influence of celebrities and social media experts. From high-profile tattooed celebrities to trending influencers, everyone has a favorite tattoo artist. Dive into the details below to learn more about the artists shaping the global tattoo scene.
Kat Von D
Born in 1982, Katherine Von Drachenberg, famously known as Kat Von D, is a multifaceted celebrity tattoo artist, entrepreneur, and makeup artist. She began her tattoo career at sixteen and has since become a prominent figure in the black-and-grey tattoo genre. Known for her work on TLC’s reality show LA Ink and her High Voltage Tattoo studio, Kat Von D has inked numerous celebrities, including Beyoncé, Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, Margaret Cho, and Eve. With an estimated net worth of $20 million as of 2024, she charges around $200 per hour for basic tattoo designs.
Mark Mahoney
A pioneer of black-and-grey tattoo art, Mark Mahoney started his career in 1977. Initially tattooing bikers, gangsters, and outlaws, Mahoney is now a celebrated artist in Hollywood. He owns the highly sought-after Shamrock Social Club studio. His clientele includes Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp, Rihanna, Jared Leto, and David Beckham.
Dr. Woo
Brian Woo, known professionally as Dr. Woo, is a Hollywood-based tattoo artist who apprenticed under Mark Mahoney at Shamrock Social Club. Specializing in single-needle fine lines and black-and-grey designs, Dr. Woo has gained immense popularity. He has tattooed celebrities like Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, Hailey Bieber, Ellie Goulding, Drake, Zoe Kravitz, Kendall Jenner, Harry Styles, Cara Delevingne, and Chiara Ferragni. As of 2024, Dr. Woo’s net worth is estimated at $1.5 million, with hourly rates around $200.
Margot Robbie
Renowned actress and occasional tattoo artist Margot Robbie has showcased her tattooing skills on sets like Justice League and Suicide Squad. She even tattooed one of the production staff on The Graham Norton Show. Despite not holding a license, Robbie has inked over 50 individuals, including friends and co-stars, using a tattoo gun she purchased on eBay.
Jonathan Shaw
Jonathan Shaw, a legendary tattoo artist, founded New York’s oldest tattoo shop, Fun City Tattoo Studios, in 1976. Known for tattooing some of the world’s most notorious figures, Shaw retired in 2000 and settled in Rio de Janeiro. He is recognized for his appearances on The Tonight Show with David Letterman and has tattooed celebrities like Johnny Depp, The Cure, Marilyn Manson, Joe Coleman, Orlando Bloom, and Tupac Shakur.
Jonathan ‘JonBoy’ Valena
Youth pastor and tattoo artist Jonathan ‘JonBoy’ Valena gained fame after tattooing supermodel Hailey Baldwin Bieber in 2015. His tattoo shop, located on the second floor of Moxy Times Square, has served over 20,000 clients. Valena has also tattooed Kendall Jenner, Justin Bieber, Zayn Malik, Chloe Grace Moretz, and Sofia Richie. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at $1.5 million, with charges ranging from $1,000 to $3,500.
Mr. K
A Parsons School of Design graduate, Mr. K transitioned from graphic and streetwear design to tattooing. He established Keith’s Bang Bang Studio in South Korea, gaining fame for his versatile tattoo styles. His clientele includes David Beckham, Rita Ora, Liam Hemsworth, Odell Beckham, and Michael J. Fox.
Ryan Ashley DiCristina
Ryan Ashley DiCristina, a celebrity tattoo artist and social media influencer, boasts over 1.7 million Instagram followers. She has hosted shows like Grudge Match and Ink Master, and is the first tattoo artist to collaborate with Apple on their educational project Today At Apple. DiCristina has led seminars on her tattooing style in Barcelona, Cancun, and Richmond.
Melody Mitchell
Melody Mitchell, known for her unique canvas tattoos, has over 367k Instagram followers. Initially pursuing a career in arts and photography, Mitchell transitioned to tattooing and illustration. She specializes in bold ink designs and has an impressive portfolio with over 20,000 satisfied clients.
Joanna Roman
Joanna Roman is celebrated for her simple and elegant tattoo designs, specializing in color realism. Her tattoo shop, Chronic Ink Studios, has a vast customer base and more than 200k Instagram followers. Roman’s tattoo charges range from $100 to $200.
Final Words
The world of tattooing offers a vast array of styles and artists to choose from. Our curated list of the top 10 most influential tattoo artists includes names like Joanna Roman and Mark Mahoney, each bringing their unique flair to the art form. Whether you’re considering getting inked or simply appreciate the artistry, these artists represent the pinnacle of tattoo excellence.
