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“IKIGAI”

Chris Kiyoharu Hirakawa

KIYOHARU TATTOOER

Hey, I’m Chris

I’ve been tattooing for 8+ years now, I specialise in opaque black n grey realism and inspired by contrast and the flow of the body, I do this to make my designs fit each person differently, we come in all shapes and sizes and we all want something that will enhance our current or desired form. I grew up in many countries including the UK where I am based now, however I take a lot from my Japanese roots, especially in how I approach the world. I want every tattoo to feel grounded. have depth. Measured. Like a photograph carved into the skin, but still personal.

I also travel a lot, not just to work, but to find new ways of seeing and approaching new projects with new life and techniques learnt from the places I go as well as understanding and learning new cultures to help develope myself, In my younger years I served in the military which taught me a lot.. sometimes too much, but it gave me a perspective on life that I deeply appreciate now. I’ve also got ADHD with that hyperfocus type aha so once we start, we’re not stopping till it’s done right. you’ll hate me at the time but I don’t do shortcuts. I just want to make pieces that matter.

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Philosophy & Practice

My style’s often called opaque realism It’s a mix of soft greys and layered shading that builds depth slowly as to not damage the skin. I tattoo how I used to draw: gentle pressure, like a biro or pencil. It heals cleaner. It lasts longer. the ink bleeds in the skin less,

I believe in intention. Every piece should feel timeless, not trendy. Something you’ll never get bored of. I want you to walk away with something bespoke, symbolic, and personal to you.

In Japan, ikigai means “a reason for being.” That quiet sense of purpose. For me, tattooing is that. It’s not about being the best, it’s about meaning and putting everything into each piece. another philosophy I live by is kaizen: it means steady, constant improvement. Every piece teaches me something new. Every trip, every conversation, every mistake is all part of the process to get to the end result not matter the time it takes to get there.

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The Spirit Behind It

I believe art and spirit belong together. Tattoos aren’t just visuals, they’re memories, energies, and symbolic protection. I take inspiration from nature, my travels, and the people I meet.
Every piece is a portal to endless possibilities.
So let’s open one together.

Design Preferences

I love to work on large scale pieces like Arms, backs, legs. Full concepts we can design to create one flow to show off the curvature and shape of the body, pieces with stories intertwined, and symbolism. My favourites are multi-layered black n grey with Japanese, blackwork, abstract, nature, and travel-inspired references.

There isn’t much I tend to steer away from however, I don’t like to tattoo faces, fingers, or hands (unless we’ve spoken before about your life, at the end of the day it’s my responsibility to take care of you). I do tend to avoid cover ups nowadays, unless you’re happy for me to take full creative lead with a dark realism style. No colour. Nothing super light as it wont cover well.

2026 Travel & Convention Schedule

Booking Your Tattoo

Every tattoo I do is fully bespoke. Use the form below to share your idea, whether it’s detailed or still forming, I’ll help guide it into something meaningful and lasting.

Once submitted, I’ll personally review your request and get back to you with next steps but please be patient, I get busy and work late, so I reply when I can.

    Booking Form


    This form helps Chris gather everything needed to create a one-of-a-kind tattoo tailored to your body and idea. The more thought you put into it, the smoother and more enjoyable the process will be.



    If this is a cover-up or rework, make sure the old tattoo is clearly visible in your placement photo.

    How to take a good placement photo

    2000

    Please upload at max 6 references you’d like Chris to consider.




    No stress, you can just send some references or describe a vibe you’re going for. I’ll be able to help suggest what fits you best and we can go from there.

    Perfect. I can help turn loose ideas into a full design. Just fill in the form with what you’ve got and ill be able to get a better understanding of what you’re after.

    Yes please. It helps me shape a better quote and tell you what’s realistically achievable.

    Selected Work

    A few examples of the different ways I work. Each piece is bespoke to the client and finalised over days to achieve the desired end goal.

    Japanese tattoo
    Japanese tattoo
    Japanese tattoo
    Japanese tattoo
    Japanese tattoo

    Traditional Influence

    Symbolic placement and considered body flow, without leaning into clichés.


    Animal tattoo
    Animal tattoo
    Animal tattoo
    Animal tattoo
    Animal tattoo

    Animals & Meaning

    Animals always hold personal meaning, we draw out their softness and strength.


    Abstract tattoo
    Abstract tattoo
    Abstract tattoo
    Abstract tattoo
    Abstract tattoo

    Abstract & Flow

    Textured, with flow and placement consideration, I let shape of your body guide these pieces so they flow seamlessly.


    Portrait tattoo
    Portrait tattoo
    Portrait tattoo
    Portrait tattoo
    Portrait tattoo

    Portrait & Realism

    Fine details with calm, layered shading. I use opaque black for soft depth with high contrast to make them stand the test of time.


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    Kiyoharu Tattooer | Black and Grey Realism Tattoo Artist Southampton