raditional Japanese back tattoos are the ultimate statement of the Japanese tattoo. The Japanese word for this is “Kamenoko“. Japanese backpiece tattoos take a full body approach to tattooing. The backpiece is not only the largest tattoo on the body, it is also the central one, and establishes the theme and sense of proportion for all of the wearer’s tattoos. It is traditionally accomplished as your first tattoo for this reason.
Carl Hallowell, a master tattoo artist renowned for his expertise in traditional Japanese tattooing, invites you to experience the height of this folk art form by accomplishing your own backpiece. Carl has a deep understanding of Japanese tattoo tradition, from its symbolism to its application; he brings forth it’s natural power and beauty in each of his Japanese back tattoos.
Many of us Americans are drawn to the stark traditionalism of the Japanese tattoo. This tradition, this adherence to right versus wrong, makes up the lion’s share of the significance of this art. This tradition also sets forth a specific pictorial language of the Japanese style tattoo artist, that, with direction from your experienced tattooist, can be read like a story in the pages of a book.
