Artist of the Month #01: Alan Lenihan

Meet Alan- the artist proving that the best tattoos don't have to fit into one box.

If you've spent any time scrolling through Instagram recently, there's a good chance you've come across Alan's work. Currently located at Lucky Rat Tattoo in Nottingham, he is known for his amazing micro-realism. But recently, his style has developed since going viral with his now iconic mash-up of realism and traditional. His designs are instantly recognisable and show exactly what can happen when you're willing to push creative boundaries.

Although he's been tattooing professionally for the last three years, Alan's journey started much earlier. Inspired by his dad, friends already working in the industry, and a lifelong fascination with tattoo culture, he took the leap into tattooing after university and hasn't looked back since.

What stood out to us most though, wasn't just Alan's artwork. It's the genuine passion he has for his clients and the confidence they leave the studio with. Whether he's creating a deeply personal memorial piece or an ambitious style mash-up, every tattoo is approached with the same enthusiasm and care.

We're so happy to have him on part of the Skin Jungle Sponsored Artist team! We caught up with Alan to chat about his journey into tattooing, the tattoo he's most proud of and many more questions.

When did you start your career in tattooing, and why did you feel drawn to this industry?

"I dabbled in tattooing as far back as six years ago when I was at university during lockdown. I lost motivation with it for a while, but threw myself back into it three years ago.
I had friends in the industry, but my pop was a huge factor in why I got into tattooing. He funded me when I was unemployed and supported the dream from the very start. I always used to hang out with him and his friends when I was younger- they were all skinheads and Northern Soul boys, covered head to toe in tattoos."

 

What's your favourite style to tattoo, even if it's not your usual?

"Mashing styles together will always be my favourite. That comes from my love of traditional tattooing and microrealism."

Why do you resonate with Skin Jungle over other industry names?

"They're local for one, and they're run by tattoo artists I've worked alongside and have a huge amount of respect for. Plus, when I was younger I wanted to be a zoologist or conservationist, so I love what they stand for and that they donate from every purchase to animal charities."

What's your favourite tattoo you've ever done?

"That's a hard one because I've got a bunch! I'd have to say my recent mash-up with a skull and a big flame behind it. I did it for my oldest brother, so it felt even more meaningful to me."

 

What's your favourite part of the job?

"Honestly- and I know it's cringe- but people's reactions. Knowing I've boosted someones confidence and helped them get something they truly love and are proud of. Nothing beats it."

You've recently gone viral. Congratulations! Are there any tips you can give to other artists and creatives?

"It still feels like a fever dream! But don't be afraid to test yourself with new and challenging styles. Break the boundaries, go wild with whatever your brain blesses you with. Be weird with it."

If you could only tattoo one animal for the rest of your career, what would it be?

"Tough! It has to be birds. They have so many textures and so much contrast- not to mention they're absolutely timeless!"

Which Skin Jungle range is your favourite?

"Panther Tattoo Care. It's the best butter I've ever used."

Finally, if you were deserted in a jungle with three items, what would they be?

"I'm going to go full survivalist with this one! A machete, for obvious reasons. A fishing rod. Anddddd... a lighter, because I'd absolutely give up trying to make a fire myself!😂"

As this is the very first edition of Skin Jungle's Artist of the Month, we'd like to say a huge thank you to Alan for helping us kick off the series. One of our favourite things about the tattoo industry is the incredible people behind the artwork, and this series our way of celebrating them. We hope you've enjoyed getting to know Alan and his journey as much as we have. Be sure to check out his work > Alan's Instagram give him a follow, keep an eye out for the month of August for our collaborations and we'll be back next month with another artist spotlight.