Microrealism & Surrealism

Lily Shy

Black-and-grey microrealism and surreal pieces, drawn from scratch and one of a kind.

About

A gentle hand, a careful eye

I'm Lily, and I work only in black and grey microrealism and surreal pieces, small and finely detailed. I work with black and grey because it holds a story well: most of what I tattoo is something personal, a memory someone wants to keep or a companion they want to carry with them for life. I like it best when a piece makes you smile a little every time you notice it.

Every piece is custom. You bring the idea, I draw it for you, and we don't rush the session.

Style

Selected work

A few recent pieces, black-and-grey microrealism and surreal scenes.

  • Tattoo by Lily Shy — piece 1
  • Tattoo by Lily Shy — piece 2
  • Tattoo by Lily Shy — piece 3
  • Tattoo by Lily Shy — piece 4
  • Tattoo by Lily Shy — piece 5
  • Tattoo by Lily Shy — piece 6
  • Tattoo by Lily Shy — piece 7
  • Tattoo by Lily Shy — piece 8

Details

Good to know

I'm based in Stuttgart and travel for guest sessions through the year. Every piece is mine alone, drawn for you, from your idea. Here's what's worth knowing before you reach out; the full prep and aftercare guide you will receive when you are ready to book.

Where can I get tattooed?

Stuttgart is my home base, and I guest in other cities through the year. Recently I was in Copenhagen, Vienna, Karlsruhe, and Düsseldorf, with new dates announced on Instagram. Tell me your city in the inquiry and we'll find a studio that suits us both; the exact address is confirmed once your session is booked.

Can I bring my own design?

Bring your idea, your references, the feeling you're after — and I'll draw something made only for you. I don't copy existing tattoos or other artists' work; everything I tattoo is my own.

What does a tattoo cost?

Each piece is quoted individually once I've seen your idea. Size, detail, and placement all factor in. You'll get a clear price before anything is booked, and your deposit comes off the total.

How soon until you can tattoo me?

It depends on the current waitlist. Sometimes it's a few weeks, sometimes longer. I'll be honest about timing when we talk.

Contact

Let's make something yours

Tell me about your idea and I'll be in touch to plan the details. It only takes a couple of minutes.