20 Nov “Pixel art tattoos are a unique style that requires absolute precision and a high degree of creativity,” interview with tattoo artist Mr Pixel

He grew up playing loads of video games, so tattoo artist Mr Pixel (@mrpixel.tattooer) who’s based in Singapore, brings that nostalgia into his tattoo style. It reminds him of a simpler time, which especially resonates with us as we came of age in the digital era. Who doesn’t miss their Sega Mega Drive and their 90s childhood bedroom? But pixel tattoos are definitely having their moment in the spotlight so we caught up with the artist to find out more about how he honed his pixelated craft and how he takes inspiration and, well basically, pixelates it … yep to pixel tattoos, nope to pixelated photos…

When and why did you fall in love with tattooing?

I was always curious about tattoos since I was young – mostly because of my dad’s influence. He has a full back eagle tattoo. As a child, I was always curious and fascinated about it. I loved looking at it. It made me wonder about why and how we can have a piece of art work drawn on our skin and hidden under our clothes.

The day I did my first tattoo was the best feeling in my life, because I fell in love with it right away. Being able to express my artwork on and with clients who share and feel the same is amazing. 

Another moment was when I participated in The Lion’s Gate Singapore Tattoo Convention 2024 and competed for Best in Small colour category. I managed to execute a piece of flawless artwork for my client and I’m humbled to be awarded second place. It was fulfilling and a proud moment that keeps me motivated and I look forward to more challenges ahead.

How long have you been tattooing? How did you learn and what was it like learning? 

I started tattooing during the COVID pandemic, I did not go through a traditional apprenticeship. I learnt along the way and I’ve been fortunate to meet amazing artists who guided and shared with me. With a lot of hard work and dedication and together with the support of my sponsors and pro team such as Poseidon Tattoo, Drpickles and World Tattoo Events, I was exposed to more opportunities.

What was your first tattoo experience like?

My first tattoo was done on my thigh! It was a pixelated Pac-Man and that started my journey of pixel tattoos. It was challenging because I needed to focus on my techniques and endure the pain. 

How would you describe your work? 

Pixel art tattoos are a unique style that requires absolute precision and a high degree of creativity. Each design is meticulously crafted, often invoking a sense of nostalgia by bringing back childhood memories of early video games and 8-bit art. These tattoos are not just body art. They are a vivid reminder of a simpler time, resonating deeply with those who grew up during the dawn of the digital age.

How did you develop your style to what it is today?

I grew up playing a lot of games, I enjoy redesigning and expressing my work with a touch of digital age and a sense of nostalgia. Putting colours into my work is essential to bring out the look and feel that I want to achieve. 

What’s your favourite subject/topic to tattoo? Do you do more flash or custom work? 

I enjoy working on custom projects, redesigning any references into a pixel art tattoo, giving it a facelift of a digital look. I enjoy doing both flash and custom work.

What do you like to do in your spare time? Does this inspire your tattoos? 

I love travelling, experiencing different cultures and meeting new people. I’m humbled to be on the pro team of World Tattoo Events, which gave me the opportunity to travel around the world, competing and judging in various tattoo conventions. 

What’s it like tattooing in Singapore?

Despite being a small country in size, Singapore has a dense population with people from different races and cultures. The tattoo scene in Singapore is great! People are open and accepting with tattoos and Singapore is home to many amazing tattoo artists as well. 

Any thoughts on the tattoo world as a whole? Where it is now and anything you hope might change?

I want to continue meeting great artists, learn and share new experiences and knowledge. I want to leave a legacy behind and I am inspired to be one of the best pixel artist internationally.

I’m honored to be invited as part of the panel of judges in the recent Ancona International Tattoo Convention 2024 in Italy. I’m also invited to judge for various conventions in 2025 such as Inkdian in Goa, Art Culture Convention in Chennai and ArtisticInk Festival in Thailand. This gives me an opportunity to give back my knowledge and insights back to the tattoo industry.

What are your hopes for the future?

Over the past few years, the growth in the tattoo industry was enormous. New equipment, tattoo ink, needles, sterilisation and aftercare products made significant improvements in tattoo quality on skin. I hope to inspire artists to keep up with new knowledge and equipment and make the industry a better one!

Make sure to Mr Pixel on Instagram @mrpixel.tattooer for more tattoos and to book yours.

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.

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