Certified Artist 2026

Timmy Grounds

Realism Guided by Contrast, Structure, and Lifelong Dedication

Interview

How did you first get into tattooing, and what inspired you to make it your long-term career?

I knew I wanted to become a tattoo artist when I was about 13 years old. As I got older, I completed my apprenticeship in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, under Jeremy Kirk. During that time, I truly fell in love with tattooing and every aspect of the craft.

Tattooing allowed me to define my own career path while constantly learning and improving. The fact that I can create art every day is something that continues to inspire me. Out of everything I’ve ever done, nothing has motivated me more than tattooing.

With 22 years of experience, what moments or challenges have shaped you the most as an artist?

One of the most important influences in my career has been continuous education and the people I surround myself with. Being around individuals who value growth and progression has pushed me forward not only in my tattoo career but also in life.

How would you describe your artistic identity today within black & grey and color realism?

Tattooing allows me to express how I see the world. Through realism, I can translate my vision and perspective into tattoos. Being able to express myself through this medium has become a central part of my artistic identity.

What attracts you to realism, and what keeps you motivated after so many years?

What fascinates me most about realism is how light and shadow naturally define objects. Being able to create form and depth without relying on outlines is something I find incredibly powerful.

Can you describe your creative process when designing a custom tattoo?

My process begins by taking photos of the body part that will be tattooed. This allows me to design according to the muscle structure, natural flow, and anatomy of the client.

Then I search for realistic reference images that fit the concept. I’m particularly drawn to high-contrast imagery. I manipulate lighting and contrast to emphasize the main focal points, blending different references together and softening backgrounds to create depth.

Once the design is finalized, I prepare the stencil and move into the tattooing phase.

What technical aspects are most important for achieving depth and long-term quality?

Contrast is essential. Strong blacks create depth, while highlights provide clarity and focus. Balancing those elements properly is what ensures a tattoo maintains its visual impact over time.

How do you approach large-scale projects versus smaller pieces?

The process is essentially the same. I start by studying the body part, gathering references, and designing specifically for the placement. The main difference is simply the scale of the project.

How do you build trust with clients, especially for meaningful realism pieces?

I begin with a full consultation. Sitting down with the client allows us to discuss the meaning behind the tattoo, explore design options, and determine the best approach for the piece.

Open communication before starting the design process is extremely important for building trust.

How have you seen the tattoo industry evolve over the past two decades?

The biggest changes I’ve witnessed involve innovation in tattoo equipment and inks. Technology has significantly improved the tools we work with.

Another major shift has been the transition from traditional drawing methods to digital design. Many artists now create designs digitally rather than with pencil and paper, which has changed the way tattoos are conceptualized and prepared.