The artists · Owner & resident artist
Luke — Luke Thirlwell, tattoo artist in Blaydon
Black & grey realism, big custom pieces and cover-ups that make old ink disappear.
- Black & grey realism
- Sleeves & backpieces
- Cover-ups
- Pet & people portraits
- Mythology & Egyptian
- Full colour pop culture
About Luke
Luke opened Inkwell in July 2025 after twelve years in the industry. He fitted the studio out himself over “two heatwaves and a Greggs-fuelled month”. It has been flat-out ever since.
His work ranges from black & grey realism (animals, mythology and Egyptian pieces, portraits of people and pets) to full sleeves and backpieces built up over several sittings. He does a lot of cover-ups, using grey opaques to turn a tattoo someone has hated for decades into something they want to show off. He will happily go full colour when the design calls for it.
Expect a proper chat about the design, plenty of freehand on the day and a check-in at every stage. Some clients have followed him from studio to studio for years.
Portfolio
Luke’s work.
All real, all from the studio. Tap any piece to see it bigger.
In their words
What Luke’s clients say.
- ★★★★★
“I had my work originally done in 1983 and hated the tattoo. After 6 hours in the chair I am over the moon with the outcome and the artistic detailing… everyone in the studio makes you feel welcome and puts you at ease as soon as you walk through the door with cups of tea and Yum Yum treats.”
Joe H. tattooed by Luke Google review
- ★★★★★
“The shop is immaculate and the team are extremely professional. I had a full sleeve done by Luke and I can say it’s the best tattoo I have had done… the line work and shading is first class.”
Gary S. tattooed by Luke Google review
- ★★★★★
“Was booked in for my first tattoo, made to feel at ease from the beginning. Over the moon with the end result, Luke is an exceptional artist and I’ll be returning in a few weeks.”
Kev B. tattooed by Luke Google review
- ★★★★★
“Been going to Luke for a few years now, followed him to his own studio… always made to feel welcome, offered bottles of water, always chatting. He has an amazing team behind him with the beautiful Tabitha and Lucy, both just as amazing with their work.”
Charlotte R. tattooed by Luke Google review
- ★★★★★
“Luke made me feel comfortable from start to finish, the attention to detail is amazing! The studio was clean and welcoming. Throughout, Luke checked in regularly and made sure I was happy with every part of the design.”
Abbie B. tattooed by Luke Google review
Got an idea for Luke?
Tell us what you’re after, where it’s going and roughly how big. We’ll come back with ideas, a price and some dates.