Saying More With Less Fireside Tattoo Network

Saying More With Less

“[05:33] So I'm always trying to take a tattoo concept and like, boil it down to just like, the core essence of what that person's idea was, and then build upon it from there… But as far as… the core concept from the person, I'm always trying to get them to want to say more with less.”

— Nick Baxter

Simplifying our imagery in the early stages of design is crucial for successful, long lasting tattoos. When trying to create a visual narrative or story, our tendency is is to try and cram in every detail we can. The challenge is to say more with less. It takes some time and creative problem solving but asking yourself questions like, What is the hierarchy of the design? Where is the most important element? What elements are secondary? How can I use the fewest possible elements to get the point across?

Over time, you will find the process becoming easier. Your natural style will start to come through as you find consistent ways to give more information with fewer marks.

Watch the full episode: 

Innovative and Original Illustrative Tattooing with Nick Baxter