Luis Hinestroza: Old-World Craft, Modern Tattooing
Luis Hinestroza has carved out a space in the tattoo world where precision, depth, and visual impact dwell. At Ink & Dagger, he’s known for weaving large-scale etching, blackwork, geometric, and fine-line styles into pieces that feel classic yet command attention. His work is rooted in bold outlines and dense detail, drawing from the masters of engraving, intaglio, and printmaking.
From Medellín to Roswell
Luis is originally from Medellín, Colombia. He grew up in a family steeped in art so visual creativity was always part of his world. That artistic foundation would later catapult his tattooing journey.
He began tattooing in 2009, at age 20. Early on, he explored all kinds of styles—fine line, traditional Japanese, ornamental work—learning to adapt and develop his own voice. Over time, his preferences crystallized toward styles rich in geometry and detail, with a lean toward engraving-like blackwork.
How Ink & Dagger Became Home
Long before he officially joined, Luis had his eyes on Ink & Dagger. While visiting the U.S.—including stops in New York City and Atlanta—he tattooed friends and family, built word-of-mouth buzz, and studied the Atlanta tattoo scene.
He already admired our founder Russ Abbott’s work. When friends and family urged him to check out the shop, he jumped at the chance. After a week as a guest artist and several guest-spot returns over the years, he officially joined us in October 2022.
He recalls his first visit: “All the artists were so friendly … the space was clean and professional … I never went to a shop like that in the past.”
Etching, Geometry & Intentional Simplicity
Luis describes his style as fluid, evolving, and a bit hard to pin down—in the best way. While in his early years he took on whatever came through the door, today he leans into work with strong detail, but also the restraint to simplify where needed. He calls this his signature: detail with breathing space.
He sees his strongest style evolving toward engraving / etching mixed with traditional—designs that look great close up, but also read clearly from a distance. The bold lines, crisp shapes, and careful contrast ensure the pieces endure not just in appearance but in visual strength.
Inspirations Carved Into the Work
Luis draws from centuries-old masters and contemporary illustrators alike. His favorite is Albrecht Dürer, whose engravings and etchings left a deep impression on him. He also cites Colombian influences like Fernando Botero, David Manzur Londoño, and Omar Rayo—artists whose work shaped the landscapes and visual culture of his youth.
On the contemporary side, illustrators like Mark Ryden and others give him fresh ideas to mix with classical techniques. He also loves printmaking, architecture, and graphic design—anywhere line and form speak.
Trusting the Process
His ideal clients? People who have something to say and are open to letting the artist speak, too. Luis wants clients willing to share what they care about, and who give him “free range of freedom” within the context of a collaborative direction.
He dreams of large-scale body work done in a cohesive style. He’s drawn to meaningful subject matter: childhood memories, cultural symbols, or visual motifs that carry emotion and story. He’s less interested in trends, more interested in creating work that lives with you.
Outside the Studio
Luis describes himself as shy and introspective. He spends a lot of time observing—walking, being in nature, exploring the city, spending time alone. He loves cats and finds quiet moments recharge his creativity. He also reads and researches artists constantly, always looking for inspiration to feed into his next tattoo.
Work With Luis
Collaborating with Luis means entering a space where line, form, and intention matter. He’ll take your concept and build it into something refined—rooted in his style, but molded by your personal narrative.
Browse Luis’s portfolio on the Ink & Dagger website to see the power of etching, geometric forms, and blackwork done at scale. When you’re ready, submit a booking request form to begin your project. Whether it’s a dense geometric piece or a flowing etching-style sleeve, if you want precision, detail, and a design that lasts, Luis is someone to trust.
