Bob Parr: How I design a full color backpiece

Blog from Bob Parr, Owner/artist of Nirvanic Tattoo 04.08.2025

The creation of a full-color backpiece is an intricate process, commencing with an essential in-person consultation between the client and myself, the artisan. Typically, the client arrives with a curated collection of visual references, offering insight into their desired central themes and symbolic language. On occasion, a client may present a more nebulous concept, allowing me the artistic privilege of composing complementary elements and motifs that harmonize with their core vision. Drawn to the organic beauty of the natural world and expressing myself through a vibrant, illustrative style, I often find myself intuitively weaving these influences into the background and secondary thematic layers, resulting in a cohesive and resonant composition.

Inspired by the client's initial references, I embark on a deeper exploration, curating a more extensive array of images and preliminary sketches. These serve as a visual dialogue, articulating my developing vision for a beautifully orchestrated full back tattoo. During the consultation, I often render initial compositional frameworks, providing a tangible foundation for discussion and allowing the client to articulate their preferences and aesthetic sensibilities. This direct, personal interaction is invaluable, as witnessing their countenance illuminate with nascent excitement upon seeing their vision take form is profoundly rewarding. It is in that moment of undeniable enthusiasm that I recognize the resonance of the creative direction.

For those with an appreciation for full-color body art, particularly within the realm of Neo-Japanese aesthetics, I invite you to initiate a consultation. I currently have limited availability to welcome a new, dedicated patron. Due to the focused nature of this work, spaces and appointment times are finite, and a deposit is required to secure your commission. Kindly complete the CONSULTATION FORM, and I will respond promptly to arrange our initial meeting. Thank you for your consideration.

-Bob Parr