Brian Lai

After three years honing my craft as an apprentice in Omaha, Nebraska, where I developed the technical foundation for tattooing, I moved to Austin, Texas, seeking new opportunities, and artistic inspiration.

The son of two Vietnamese immigrants, pursuing art was never the first choice. My introduction to the arts is heavily rooted in street graffiti and mural painting. I’ve always been fascinated by large scale art that is meant to be shared with others and I carry that same mentality to my tattooing. Public art is meant for everyone — it transcends exclusivity, existing purely to connect and communicate.

With a Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, I approach tattooing with a deep understanding of artistic principles like high contrast, visibility, and clear messaging. These principles guide my work, ensuring every piece I create is not only visually striking but also conveys a meaningful story.

One of the most distinctive aspects of my work is my lineless tattoo style. By focusing on seamless transitions and bold, clean color palettes, I create tattoos that feel vibrant and fluid — artworks that feel as if they belong not just on the skin but as a part of a larger, living canvas.

Let’s collaborate to create a tattoo that tells a story and makes a statement, even from across the room.