A reference with enough information
I check sharpness, lighting and the details available in the face or subject. A strong reference lets me build instead of guess.
Color realism tattoo · Montreal
Color realism in Montreal: light, depth and presence.
For me, a realistic portrait is about more than detail. I work with light, value, contrast and saturation to give the subject presence without losing clarity on skin.
Pointe-aux-Trembles · Montreal · conventions
Patrick DesautelsPointe-aux-Trembles · MontréalTravelling artistFYT · PurKlenz Pro Team
I choose the right reference, scale and placement with you. Every element needs enough space to breathe, age and keep its impact.
- I review your visual references in advance
- I use depth, light and saturation to serve the subject
- I can incorporate surrealist elements
My realism method
What I look for before a color realism tattoo.
Realism starts long before the fine detail. Image quality, light direction, final scale and placement determine how much presence the portrait will have on skin.
The right size for the right detail
I guide you toward a scale that gives features, textures and important transitions enough room to remain clear.
Light creates presence
I work with values, contrast and saturation to give the subject volume while keeping the image readable on skin.
Pat X portfolio
Portraits and color realism tattoos
Explore realistic portraits and scenes where every detail is supported by strong composition and a controlled palette.
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Glitch playerGaming · color realism
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Good guy gone badHorror · color realism
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Red frequencyGraphic · surrealism
FreshPat X · signature
My tattoo styles
My signature spans color tattooing, surrealism, realism, anime and neo-traditional work.
Pointe-aux-Trembles · by appointment
I tattoo in Pointe-aux-Trembles
When you write, you speak directly with me. I tattoo by appointment in Pointe-aux-Trembles, in Montreal’s east end, and at selected conventions. I personally confirm every detail before your session.
FAQ
My answers before we start your project
What subjects can I propose?
I welcome portraits, animals, objects, florals and other realistic imagery. I assess suitability with the full project.
Do I need a high-resolution image?
Ideally, yes. I need a clear, detailed and well-lit source image for realistic work.
Can realism and surrealism be combined?
Yes. I combine them when the elements form a clear composition suited to the placement.
Pat X Tattoo · Montréal
Have something in mind? Let’s talk.
Your idea does not need to be fully defined. Send me what you have in mind, the placement and a few references. I read every message myself and reply directly.