Japanese Bodysuit Tattoos

n the vibrant tapestry of Dallas’s tattoo scene, one artist stands out as a true master, using the bodies of his clients on which to place his masterpieces. Carl Hallowell is one of the best tattoo artists for Japanese bodysuit tattoos, also known as Soushinbori. Carl has carved a niche for himself with his unparalleled skill, dedication, and profound understanding of this antique art.

As the go-to artist for Japanese bodysuit tattoos, he has learned to embrace the craft by leaning on its storytelling aspects. Each image, each group of images tattooed by Carl evokes a tale told in the folklore of Japan, but translates into powerful new stories of American tattooing. 

From mythical creatures to flowers in bloom, Carl uses the designs and meanings of this traditional art to depict the power of nature in his tattooing. The Japanese tattoo, known as irezumi, was the creator of the sleeve tattoo, the backpiece tattoo, and the bodysuit tattoo. Therefore, heavy coverage in tattoo work often leads to this form. The imagery and stories are applicable to our existence as proud Americans. The origins of the stories are both esoteric, foreign, and arcane. However, the central themes are straightforward and in accord with natural order. These central themes are power and beauty. Strength and flexibility. Balance and order. Right and wrong. Tradition itself.

Carl Hallowell takes pride in offering an immersive experience into the world of traditional Japanese tattoos, in which he is your personal guide. Carl will begin your journey with a personalized consultation to discuss your ideas and help create a Japanese full body tattoo design that strictly adheres to tradition, while incorporating elements that hold personal meaning for you. 

The Japanese full body tattoo process unfolds over many sessions that are scheduled out in advance. The design choice will be finalized during the consultation, which will determine the placement of key elements and ensure a harmonious flow across the entire body. 

Next, the tattoo phase of the work begins with Carl drawing the design directly onto the skin with a pen. This drawing is finalized with the application of the tattoo outline, and becomes permanent. Shading the background of the Japanese tattoo is quite involved, and begins with the completion of the outline.

Finally, filling the designs in with color is the final step, an explosion in form as the color plays atop the black and grey wind, waves, and cloud… Crafting the full Japanese bodysuit is a time-intensive process, executed over multiple years to achieve a masterpiece that stands as a testament to patience, precision and artistic dedication.