Who is Ash?
An award winning Manchester based tattoo artist with 13 years experience, specialising in black and grey realism. From lifelike animal portraits to detailed custom pieces, every tattoo is built around precision, texture and shading that brings it to life and is made to last.
Hi, I’m Ash…
I’m Ash Higham — a black-and-grey realism tattoo artist based at Rapture Tattoo in Droylsden, Manchester. I tattoo people from around Tameside, Greater Manchester and The North West; however I’ve also welcomed many customers nationally and internationally from around the UK, Europe, US and Australia!
I’ve been tattooing for 13 years now. What started as learning the basics and finding my feet has grown into a real love for detailed, realistic work — especially animal portraits, human portraits and larger custom pieces.
who am I?
What do i do?
I specialise in black-and-grey realism: pet and wildlife portraits, family and celebrity portraits, memorial tattoos, religious pieces, sleeves and bespoke designs. Animal portraits are probably what I’m most known for. I love taking a photo that means something to someone and turning it into a tattoo that captures the personality and little details that make it theirs.
I’m big on getting things right. I take time with the design, think properly about placement and make sure it works as a tattoo — not just as a nice image on a screen. I want every piece to heal well, age well and still look great years down the line.
Tattooing has also given me the chance to work in some amazing places, including New York, Toronto and Milan. Being around different artists and clients over the years has pushed me to keep learning, improving and really focus on the style of work I enjoy most.
I’ve been lucky enough to have my work recognised through both National and International awards, but I never take it for granted that people are trusting me with something permanent — and often really personal. Whether it’s a much-loved pet, a memorial piece or simply a design you’ve wanted for years, I genuinely care about making it something you’ll be proud to wear.
Travel and awards
The process is straightforward and there’s no pressure. Bring me a clear idea, a folder full of references or just the start of a thought — we’ll work it out together.
If you’re after detailed realism, a lifelike animal portrait or a custom black-and-grey tattoo, I’d love to hear what you’ve got in mind.
If you’re thinking of booking…
I can’t wait to hear from you!
want to send me your ideas?
Fill out the quick form—let’s unleash your next breakthrough piece today.