Gilded Cage › Illustrative tattoos
Illustrative tattoos in Brighton
Custom designs, drawn from scratch by James Robinson
What is illustrative tattooing?
Tattoos that look like they were drawn for a book
Illustrative tattoos borrow from drawing and painting: confident linework, careful shading and a soft, natural palette. Every piece is designed from scratch around you, never picked off a wall.
James trained in fine art and holds a BA in Illustration. His work combines flowers, birds, animals and skeletons into detailed compositions, in mustard yellows, muted greens, dusty pinks, creams and pastel blues.
He has been tattooing in Brighton since opening Gilded Cage on St James Street in 2014.
Good to know
- Consultations are free
- Every design is drawn for you and approved before tattooing
- Vegan-friendly Eternal inks
- Colour and black & grey
Recent work
Illustrative tattoos by James
A few recent pieces. See more in the portfolio.






Questions
Illustrative tattoo FAQs
Can I bring my own idea?
Yes. Bring references, photos or a rough idea, and James will turn it into an original design that suits your skin and placement.
Do you do black and grey as well as colour?
Yes. Illustrative work can be full colour, soft pastel colour or black and grey.
How much does an illustrative tattoo cost?
It depends on size, detail and placement. As a guide, small pieces start around £100, medium detailed pieces around £250 and large complex work from £450. You get a time and cost estimate at your free consultation.
Free consultations
Have an idea for an illustrative piece?
Tell James about it at a free consultation, in person, by phone or by email.
Book a free consultation