A passion for precision. A commitment to craft.
— Liam Couper, coupstattoo
My tattoo journey began long before I ever picked up a tattoo machine. Art was always something I knew I wanted to pursue, but my appreciation for structure, symmetry and technical design led me to study Architectural Technology, graduating with a first class BSc degree.
After five years working in architecture, I realised I wanted something more creative and personally fulfilling. I made the decision to take a leap of faith and pursue tattooing professionally. Drawing every day, often throughout my lunch breaks, I worked relentlessly towards that goal before securing my apprenticeship in 2020.
Looking back, my architectural background has had a lasting influence on my approach to tattooing. The principles of structure, balance, proportion and precision that I developed in that industry now form the foundation of my work.
My style and approach
Specialising in blackwork, dotwork, geometric and ornamental tattooing, I'm driven by the challenge of creating work that is technically precise, visually striking and designed to complement the natural flow of the body.
My journey within these styles has been fuelled by a constant desire to improve, refine my technique and push the boundaries of what I can create. What I love most is the versatility of the style itself, how artists can share the same foundations while developing completely individual approaches.
For me, it's about more than intricate detail. Contrast, composition and depth are fundamental to my work, allowing each piece to have its own presence while maintaining balance and cohesion.
Every project is a collaboration. I work closely with my clients to develop designs that feel personal, considered and unique to them. I want my clients to be just as excited about the process and the finished piece as I am, and I put everything into making that happen.
— At work, convention session
Awards and recognition
My work has been recognised at several respected tattoo conventions:
- Brighton Tattoo ConventionDecorative, Runner-Up
- Titanic Tattoo ConventionBest Blackwork, 2nd
- Big North Tattoo ShowBest Ornamental, 3rd
Placing at Brighton was a particular highlight in my career, a moment that meant a great deal to me and reinforced the value of the time, dedication and constant refinement I put into my craft.
— Collecting an award
Looking ahead
I'm always looking for new challenges, opportunities to connect with clients and ways to continue developing my work.
In 2027, I'll be travelling to conventions across the UK, including Milton Keynes, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, Belfast, Sheffield and Blackpool, bringing my approach to blackwork, dotwork, geometric and ornamental tattooing to new cities and clients.
My goal remains the same: to keep pushing my own standards, create work I'm genuinely proud of, and give every client a tattoo and an experience worth remembering.