Watchful Watercolor

Watercolor tattoos are some of the most innovative tattoos out there right now. By imitating another medium, watercolor tattoos have transformed a lot of what was thought could be done with a tattoo needle. Whereas realism somewhat mimics the styles of oil painting and acrylic painting, watercolor tattoos typically follow the color palette and brush stroke aesthetic of painting in watercolors.

This tattoo above by Mike Shultz takes both elements of realism and watercolor tattoos and combines them into one bright and beautiful inked masterpiece. We love the realistic and glossy elements that bring together this colorful iris. These blue and purple hues within the eye are wonderfully complimented by the similar color scheme of the surrounding makeup of the eye lid. The watercolor-like effect of this tattooed eyeshadow then beautifully trails off into a more traditional watercolor aesthetic. This original design of highlighting more of the brushstroke aspect of the style also creates a cool visual effect that would translate into an awesome makeup style in real life, as well as in this tattoo.

Shultz is known for this fun approach to tattooing as his portfolio is a plethora of stylized realism highlighted by various inked transitions into watercolor tattoos. In fact, one of his most commonly tattooed subject matters is the human eye with these brush stroke-like accents. Clearly Shultz’s clients must be happy with their ink as he continues to further his style in this creative direction.

For more amazing watercolor tattoos check out some of our top picks right here, and if you want to get a closer look at some fun eye pieces, follow this link to our top eye ink, too!