Blackwork Tattoos in Chicago at Logan Square Tattoo
What are blackwork tattoos?
Blackwork tattoos, a unique art form, focus intensely on the heavy use of black ink. This style generally incorporates minimal color, emphasizing a dramatic positive/negative contrast and simple shading techniques. Popularized in western tattooing in the 1990s with Tribal tattoos, blackwork has evolved into various substyles, including cyber sigilism, neo tribal, inkwash, blackout, engraving, etching, ignorant, and fineline tattoos.
Looking for a blackwork tattoo artist in Chicago? Logan Square Tattoo specializes in custom blackwork tattoos created by standout Chicago artists including Gifford Kasen, December, and other members of our team. Located in Logan Square at 2352 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, our shop creates bold, custom blackwork designs across a wide range of substyles, including engraving tattoos, woodcut tattoos, cyber sigilism, blackout tattoos, ornamental blackwork, abstract blackwork, and illustrative blackwork
. Whether you are planning a large-scale statement piece or a smaller custom design, our artists work closely with each client to develop tattoos that fit the body, read clearly over time, and reflect the distinct visual impact that makes blackwork one of the most versatile tattoo styles in Chicago. To get started, submit a tattoo inquiry form and we will help match you with the right artist for your idea.
Discover the artistry of blackwork tattoos by exploring the different substyles below. Click on the artist's photo to learn more about their work and find the perfect tattoo artist for your next piece.
Don't forget to check out our Blog on blackwork with some artist interviews discussing their style and process!
This abstract inkwash design by Chicago tattooer and studio owner Gifford Kasen is influenced by a botanical design of a seedpod and flowers. The use of heavy black keeps it abstract and flowly, deisgned to ornament the body rather than be a specific image
This anime inspired piece by Chicago tattooer Dima ventures into the more illustrative side of blackwork tattooing. It uses elements of fineline tattoos as well as stipple shading and a heavy dose of solid black to give the design some backbone. While not blackwork in the traditional sense of lots of heavy black shapes, it takes a more nuanced approach to the style.
Inkwash tattoos
Illustrative anime
Woodcut and Etching tattoos are a great example of strong linework and hatching/crosshatching to make a bold yet complex looking tattoo. These tattoos read well and the simplified style is made to last. Often the subject matter is referencing medieval style woodblock engravings. This backpiece by Resident artist December takes the macabre subject matter of old etchings and ads a modern twist.
Woodcut and engraving tattoos
This ornamental tattoo gauntlet focuses on a more ornate version of blackwork tattooing. While using lots of gradients and overlapping shapes it still uses large abstract positive and negative areas to reference it's tribal tattoo roots. This piece was done by resident artist Gifford Kasen
Chicago micro realism and blackwork tattoo artist Dima uses bold lettering to create a heavy blackwork design across the clients stomach, utilizing barb wire across the top as an homage to the blackwork tribal designs of the 90's. His custom design has a modern twist incorporating subtle elements of realism
Abstract ornamental blackwork
Block Lettering
Cyber sigilism is a newer adaptation of tribal designs that takes references from scifi and cybernetic looks. It almost looks like an alien language or ancient symbols from a distance race with a pinch of black metal type font. These pieces were done by our friend and international guest artist Kamil and resident artist Gifford, respectively.
Ornamental Blackwork tattoos can be either large or small. They are typically abstract but have some sort of symmetry or repeated pattern. Mandala tattoos and geometric tattoos can sometimes fall in this category. These ornamental tattoos are custom designed tattoos by resident Chicago artists Paige and Dima.
cybersigilism
ornamental blackwork tattoos
Illustrative blackwork
Blackwork often comes out of illustrative styles of tattooing. The three pieces above demonstrate different styles of illustration that rely on heavy black in order to make the design. There's elements of ornamental, abstract, and even some engraving and woodcut styles represented here. These three pieces are from resident Chicago Tattooers December and Pablo.
Interested in getting an abstract blackwork Tattoo?Here’s a few flash designs by artist Gifford Kasen that are available either as is or as a starting point to discuss a more indepth idea. We update flash and tattoo ideas in our News section monthly.
Blackwork Tattoo FAQ
What is a blackwork tattoo?
A blackwork tattoo is a tattoo style built primarily with black ink, using bold contrast, heavy fills, linework, stippling, or shading to create strong visual impact. Blackwork can include many different looks, from abstract and ornamental designs to engraving, woodcut, cyber sigilism, and blackout tattoos.
What blackwork tattoo styles does Logan Square Tattoo offer?
At Logan Square Tattoo, we create a wide range of custom blackwork tattoos in Chicago, including engraving tattoos, woodcut tattoos, cyber sigilism, blackout tattoos, ornamental blackwork, abstract blackwork, inkwash, and illustrative blackwork. Our artists approach blackwork in different ways, so clients can find a style and artist that fits their vision.
Who are the blackwork tattoo artists at Logan Square Tattoo?
Gifford Kasen and December are two of the key artists to explore for blackwork tattooing at Logan Square Tattoo, with the studio also featuring additional resident and guest artists whose work overlaps with blackwork, ornamental, illustrative, and custom tattoo styles. We recommend reviewing artist portfolios before submitting your tattoo inquiry.
Where is Logan Square Tattoo located?
Logan Square Tattoo is located at 2352 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 in the heart of Logan Square. Our studio serves clients from across Chicago, including nearby neighborhoods such as Bucktown, Wicker Park, Avondale, Humboldt Park, and Palmer Square.
How do I book a blackwork tattoo in Chicago?
To book a blackwork tattoo at Logan Square Tattoo, the best first step is to submit a tattoo inquiry form through the website. Include your tattoo idea, preferred placement, approximate size, and any reference points such as engraving, woodcut, cyber sigilism, or blackout so we can connect you with the best-fit artist.
Are blackwork tattoos good for large custom pieces?
Yes. Blackwork tattoos are especially strong for large custom pieces because the style relies on contrast, structure, and readability. Styles like blackout, ornamental blackwork, engraving, and woodcut tattoos can work well for sleeves, back pieces, chest pieces, and leg tattoos, while still being adapted for smaller placements.
Our Role in the Rich History of Chicago Tattoo Studios
Chicago's tattoo heritage is iconic, starting with Cliff Raven's Chicago Tattoo Company and evolving through pioneers like Guy Aitchison. Logan Square Tattoo, established in 2014 by Gifford Kasen, plays a vital role in this legacy. Located in Chicago's vibrant Logan Square, our studio offers custom tattoos seven days a week. We encourage new clients to explore our artists' portfolios and arrange in-person consultations. Embracing the evolving art form, our team includes diverse full-time and guest artists, infusing new styles into the community. For over a decade, we've celebrated Chicago's tattoo culture, honoring tradition while pushing boundaries for future creativity.
