Japanese & Irezumi Tattoo Portfolio
Tattoos by Wes Holland · Atlanta
This page showcases Japanese and Irezumi-inspired tattoos created by Wes Holland.
Each piece is built with respect for traditional structure, intentional flow, and clear composition designed to age well on the body.
The work shown here includes sleeves, back pieces, and custom Japanese tattoos developed through careful planning rather than one-off placement.
Selected Japanese Tattoos
This portfolio represents completed Japanese tattoos drawn and executed with classic Irezumi principles.
Subjects, florals, and backgrounds are paired intentionally to support personal storytelling and symbolism.
Philosophy & Approach to Japanese Tattooing
Japanese tattooing is rooted in structure. Strong designs rely on a clear primary subject, supporting elements, and a background that guides movement across the body.
Common motifs include dragons, tigers, koi, and seasonal florals such as cherry blossoms, peonies, chrysanthemums, and maples. These elements are paired based on meaning, seasonality, and anatomical flow.
Each composition is planned to move with the body rather than sit on top of it. This approach creates clarity, cohesion, and long-term visual strength.
Large-Scale Composition and Flow
Japanese tattoos are most effective when designed as part of a larger system rather than isolated images.
Sleeves and back pieces typically center on one or two primary subjects supported by florals and background elements such as water, clouds, wind bars, or stone. This structure creates rhythm and balance while allowing the design to expand naturally if the project continues.
Single-session Japanese tattoos shown here are still composed with these same principles, scaled appropriately for the body.
Color, Contrast, and Skin Tone Considerations
Japanese tattooing relies heavily on contrast, negative space, and controlled saturation. These fundamentals allow designs to read clearly across a wide range of skin tones when applied correctly.
Color choices are made with longevity in mind rather than brightness alone. Saturation, placement, and subject matter all play a role in how a tattoo heals and ages over time.
The work shown reflects these principles across different complexions and body placements.
About Wes Holland
Wes Holland specializes in custom Japanese and large-scale tattoo compositions. His work emphasizes structure, balance, and thoughtful design rooted in traditional principles while adapting to the individual client and modern execution standards.
Each tattoo is approached as a complete composition rather than a standalone image, with attention paid to anatomy, movement, and long-term clarity.
Booking & Appointments
Japanese Tattoo appointments and consultations are handled through Lightwork Tattoo.
For details on availability, pricing, and the booking process for Japanese and Irezumi-inspired tattoos, visit the studio’s Japanese tattoo service page.
This page outlines project scope, session structure, and what to expect before requesting an appointment.