Whether you're a walking work of art or your skin is still as fresh as a baby's bottom, there's always a real buzz about getting that new piece of body art. Here in Galway, you really are spoiled for choice with loads of tattoo artists operating at the height of professional service and quality. Their designs are truly mind blowing and, once you've read all of this, we know you'll be booking yourself straight in for an appointment.
Feel like getting a bit of ink to brighten things up a little? Well, these incredible Galway artists can't wait to adorn you with a fab new tattoo...
CLADDAGH ART COLLECTIVE
More than just a tattoo parlour, Claddagh Art Collective is a hub for art, passion and creativity. The studio is sleek and clean, ran by two of Ireland's most talented artists, Joe Wescott & Jarlath Tourish, although the boys are comfortable and adept in all styles; Jarlath loves to blend geometric design with realism, resulting in unique results that can be adapted to all tastes. Joe, meanwhile, has a style leaning more to the fantastical and loves the freedom of drawing freehand on to the skin to create a tattoo that complements the natural shape and movement of your body. This pair only do bookings, as they create each bespoke piece to suit you, shoot them a message on social media to pencil in an appointment today!
59 Dominick Street Lower, Galway's Westend // Check out their Tattoos here
AWOL TATTOOS & PIERCING
This family-run tattoo studio has been decorating the people of Galway for the best part of a decade. The highly skilled artists at AWOL have a varying range of specialities from Neotraditional and Traditional to New School and Fine Line tattoo. There is even a Gaelgeoir artist for anybody who'd like to include some Irish language in their tattoo, as well as a vegan artist who can ensure your setup is completely animal cruelty free. Check out their Instagram at the link below to find out which of their talented artists boasts a style that best suits you. Then, send them a DM to chat about your ideas and what you want, as they can all do consultations online! They will try their best to fit in walk-ins any day but it's always best to message ahead online to book in and ensure your slot. So, go ahead and slide into their DMs get started on your journey toward a new tattoo.
2 Newtownsmith, // Check out their Tattoos here
TATTOOS BY JUSTINE AT ADHD
Tattoo artist, Justine creates beautiful designs with a great eye for detail, speckled with stunning flashes of vibrant colours that really make her art stand out. Her watercolour designs are seriously stunning! Not content with just being a great tattooist, Justine also offers body piercing, fabulous make-up and natural-looking permanent brows effortlessly getting you the ideal look and style you are after. She now operates out of ADHD Tattoo Studio on Kirwan's Lane, so if you're looking to get some of Justine's amazing designs on your body head straight down to their Latin Quarter spot.
ADHD Tattoo Studio on Kirwan’s Lane, Latin Quarter // Check out their Tattoos here
WEST END ART COLLECTIVE
The newest addition to the art scene in Galway, West End Art Collective is the creation of Claddagh Art Collective's Jarlath Tourish. Showcasing art pieces of local artists and creators as well as providing professional tattooing service, West End Art Collective brings together a plethora of artistic geniuses. Resident tattoo artist Anna Ki specialises in fine line, ornamental and blackwork design so if that sounds like your thing make sure you book in ASAP. They'll be hosting visiting artists on a regular basis so give them a follow on their Instagram, so you don't miss out on the latest news.
2 Dominick St Upper, Galway's Westend // Check out their Tattoos here
ART-TATTOO GALWAY
Open seven days a week, Art Tattoo Galway is a creative tattoo design studio in the heart of Bohermore. This team can bring to life the body art of your dreams so if you've been looking for a sign to go and get that new bit of ink, this is it. From small fine line designs to big bold flashes of colour, Art-Tattoo is a brilliant choice for anyone looking to get their first tattoo, the team will have all your queries and concerns resolved in a matter of seconds. For amazing results in a chilled-out atmosphere, Art Tattoo Galway will never disappoint!
65 Prospect Hill, Bohermore // Check out their Tattoos here
G's TATTOOS
Led by the industry stalwart, Gordon, the award-winning tattoo artists at G's Tattoos have a great reputation not only for their varying styles of artwork but also for the professional and safe service you receive once you walk through the door. Their crew are seriously friendly so don't be afraid to ask about anything you are unsure of. Whether it's your first tattoo, something more extensive or even a cover up of an old tattoo these team can deliver flawless results every time. Booking in advance is always advised as they are very popular!
Located above The Body Shop, 36 William Street, City Centre // Check out their Tattoos here
ALPHA TATTOO STUDIO
Take a spin out of the city and visit the new Alpha Tattoo Studio in Loughrea. From minimalist designs to intricate cover ups, there’s no tattoo that Jason and his team can’t do. Deciding on your ideal piece from their range of flash designs is no mean feat but you’re guaranteed to be impressed with the results. While Alpha Tattoo Studio may be a recent addition to the County Galway tattoo scene, they are already building a reputation for their stellar designs and customer service. Check them out for yourself when you’re in the area and be amazed.
2 Main St, Loughrea // Check out their Tattoos here
GALWAY BAY TATTOOS
With over 60 years of experience between them, the team at Galway Bay Tattoos are unquestionably one of the best in the bizz. Stephen Kennedy, Dmitri, and Caz are true pros when it comes to tattooing so bring them the idea of the design that appeals to you and let them work their magic, bringing it to life on your skin. While you’re busy getting inked, you can entertain yourself by checking out the stunning artwork dotted around the room, all of which has been created by local and international artists.
63 Dominick St Lower, Galway's Westend // Check out their Tattoos here
INKFINGERS
Galway's longest established tattoo studio, the lads at Inkfingers have a wealth of experience to draw from and are able to cover basically any style you can think of. Photo-realistic portraitures, new school, colour, black and grey, abstract, watercolour - whatever you're after, they'll be able to sort it out for you! Run by Sean Rickets, the owner and in-house legend of Inkfingers, it goes without saying he knows what he’s doing. He’s especially good at watercolour, so we highly recommend checking out his previous designs for some inspo.
Unit 7, Cathedral Buildings, Lower Abbeygate St // Check out their Tattoos here
RISE TATTOO
Located just off Galway's bustling Shop Street, Rise Tattoo is a professional studio that works in all aspects of tattooing, from more traditional Black and Grey styles to seriously colourful Japanese work and more. They specialise in large-scale, custom, freehand lettering which has become much sought after here in Galway in recent years. Open late and happy to take walk-ins, but we recommend booking in advance, so you get the chance to work with them to create a unique custom design, specific for you.
25 Upper Abbeygate St // Check out their Tattoos here
GALWAY TATTOOS
Situated in one of the most vibrant buildings in town, you'll find Galway Tattoos nestled in the laneway beside The Kings Head. Its colourful exterior is reflected in the brilliant artwork they create. You'll find old school, retro, fun and playful designs created by their professional and incredibly talented team. Whether it's piercings or quality fine art tattoos you want, their work speaks for itself, with hundreds of satisfied customers and stellar reviews. They love walk-ins so just pop in and pick from some of their wonderful works of art to get started.
Olde Malt House, High St, Latin Quarter // Check out their Tattoos here
