@samashleytattoo

📍Leicester, UK

Sam Ashley, born in Leicester, UK, discovered tattooing in London in 2010, influenced by music and pop culture. From a young age, he filled sketchbooks with comics, storybooks, and portraits of family and animals.In 2018, he began his apprenticeship, building a portfolio rooted in traditional artwork — a foundation that evolved into the bold, anime-inspired style he’s recognised for today.With seven years of tattooing experience, Sam now works at Magna Tattoo in Leicester alongside James Ryan and Jimmie Spires. Specialising in black and grey, fine line, and stippling, he brings anime classics like Dragon Ball and Naruto, and modern hits like Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen, to life with crisp lines, smooth shading, and a blend of manga artistry with timeless tattoo techniques.

Over the years, I have explored different tattoo styles, experimenting with new and traditional techniques learned through researching my favourite artists, practising, learning from mistakes, asking questions, attending conventions, and building industry connections. This journey has brought me to a point in my career where I create work that connects with people who share my love for anime, video games, TV, film, and comic books.Looking ahead, I’m ready to take my work on the road — guesting at studios like Tokyo Tattoo in Cheltenham and appearing at specialist events, including the Anime Tattoo Convention in Belfast in March 2026.Outside the studio, I enjoy family life with my wife, Nicola, and our daughter, Ollie.