Guest Artist Weekend: Yuki Tanaka
Two days with master Japanese tattoo artist Yuki Tanaka — live tattooing, technique demos, and portfolio reviews.
Kira Slade
Tattoo Artist & Studio Owner
A rare guest spot weekend with Japanese traditional tattoo master Yuki Tanaka. Two days of live tattooing, technique demonstrations, and portfolio reviews. Limited to 8 participants for an intimate, immersive experience in Japanese traditional style.
Welcome & Introduction to Tebori
Meet Yuki Tanaka and learn the history and philosophy behind traditional Japanese hand-poke (tebori) tattooing. Overview of tools, ink preparation, and skin stretching techniques.
Live Tebori Demonstration
Watch Yuki perform a live tebori session on a volunteer participant. Real-time commentary on technique, needle angle, and shading approach.
Design Workshop: Japanese Motifs
Hands-on design workshop exploring classic Japanese tattoo motifs — koi, dragons, cherry blossoms, and waves. Composition principles for full sleeves and back pieces.
Machine vs Tebori: Techniques Compared
Side-by-side comparison of machine and hand-poke techniques. Yuki and Kira collaborate on a dual-technique piece, discussing when to use each approach.
Portfolio Review & Closing Session
Individual portfolio reviews with Yuki and Kira. Personalized feedback on composition, technique, and career direction. Certificates of completion and group photo.
Registration Open — 2 Spots Remaining
We've filled 6 of 8 spots for the Guest Artist Weekend with Yuki Tanaka. If you've been thinking about it, now's the time — once these last two spots are gone, they're gone.
Yuki Tanaka Confirmed — Travel Booked
Yuki has confirmed his travel from Tokyo and will arrive in Austin on March 26. He'll be bringing his full tebori tool kit and a selection of traditional Japanese inks.
Workshop Schedule Released
The full two-day schedule is now available. Day 1 focuses on tebori history, live demonstration, and design workshop. Day 2 covers machine vs tebori comparison and individual portfolio reviews.
Starting at
$350
USD per person
Slade Ink
142 Grand Street, Studio B, Austin, TX 78701