Ellie Angel

Blackwork, Fineline

Ellie is our resident blackwork artist at Kookie Tattoo Southampton. Read our interview with her below.

What tattoo style do you specialise in?

I specialise in blackwork, illustrative, and fine line styles. I love creating fun designs which have beauty or humour in them.

What led you into tattooing?

I’ve always loved being creative and took art classes from a young age and loved art in school. I loved to paint animals and portraits with acrylic paint. After studying it at art and college, I knew that I wanted to have creative career. I have wanted to be a tattoo artist since the ages of 15.

I made a portfolio and took it round Southampton, which eventually led to my first apprenticeship. That’s when everything clicked. I realised I could turn all my weird little doodles into something people wanted on their bodies. 

What are your favourite things to tattoo?

Cute but stupid animals! The sillier, the better. Think frogs with swords, cats in space suits, or ducks that look like they’ve had a long day. If it makes people laugh or say “what is that?!”, I probably want to tattoo it.

Any dream tattoo projects?

I have so many right now being new to this, I'm always thinking of different ideas and actually have a list of potential tattoo projects. Most of these revolve around my favourite movies, books, music etc.

Have you worked at any tattoo conventions?

Yep! I’ve had the pleasure of working at a bunch — including Portsmouth (twice!), Milton Keynes, Tattoo Freeze with Skin Deep, Locked Up, Cornwall, and a few more along the way. It’s so great meeting other artists and seeing everyone’s styles.

What’s the weirdest tattoo request you’ve had?

Where do I begin?! One client wanted an entire collection of ducks — a wizard duck in a cape, another magical one with a raincoat and wellies, and one in a rubber ring. Then there was a rat holding a knife... and a goose wearing a cowboy hat. Oh, and let’s not forget the set of teeth around someone’s elbow.

Any fun facts about you?

Yes I Illustrate my own colouring books!

What sets you apart as an artist?

I’m all about making people feel comfortable and understood. Tattooing isn’t just about ink – it’s about trust, personality, and collaboration. I love bringing someone’s quirky little idea to life and turning it into something that lasts a lifetime.

Just drop us a message or email info@kookietattoo.com with some reference images and a description of the tattoo and we'll get you booked in!

Realism