Pro Artist of the month - Mark Mccullough

May 13, 2026 - 2 months ago

Our Pro Artist of the month interviews are back and this time the spotlight is shining on Pokémon master and buffest nerd we’ve ever seen, Mark Mccullough.

Hailing from Belfast, Mark is an incredible anime and videogame tattoo artist, and organiser of one of our favourite conventions around, Anime TattCon.

We spoke to Mark about his favourite anime shows, how he created his signature blackwork anime style, and what we can expect for Anime TattCon Season 3.

What was the main inspiration for pursuing a career as a full-time tattoo artist?

I’ve always been into art and drawing since I was a kid. Doing other kids’ art homework at school, etc. Once I started getting tattooed at 15 (lol), that’s when I really fell in love with the culture. After working loads of different jobs (still drawing) over the years, I finally thought, fuck it I need to do this for myself and went all in. Left my job and the rest is history.

Have you always preferred tattooing blackwork, or did you dabble in colour at the start?

I’ve always preferred blackwork. I’ve dabbled in all other styles, but blackwork is where I feel I excel the most. I just love the look of it, especially with the Pokémon and anime flavour. I just wanted to focus on perfecting one style, still learning every day.

What led you to your signature blackwork anime style?

I’ve pushed Pokémon and Dragon Ball tattoos from the very start. As anime got more popular over the years, more people were requesting it. Tattooing anime every day is honestly a dream job – getting to tattoo nostalgia is unreal. I started blending anime with my blackwork style, and after a few rough early pieces, it’s grown into its own thing.

Were there artists or studios that shaped how you work or think about tattooing?

There are loads of artists I look up to, too many to name. But when it comes to tattooing, I just focus on doing my best for the client and giving them a good experience. Over the years, you learn most by actually tattooing. Just be yourself and develop your own style.

What is the secret to super bold yet clean lines in your work?

The secret is powerrrrrr… fast movements, confidence, and a good round shader!

What is your favourite part of blackwork – lining, stipping, or whip shading?

My favourite part is all of it. Seeing those bold lines go in, then adding peppery stipple over large areas – nothing beats it. And packing in some juicy black with a flavoured mag is always fun.

What studio do you currently tattoo from, and who else is there with you?

I work at Hellfire Tattoo Club with some top talented guys: Rhyan, Eoin, Liam, Ken, Jordan, and Bronagh. Everyone has completely different styles, which makes it such a solid team.

Why did you choose to become a resident artist at a studio rather than own and run your own?

Running a studio can be a ball ache, especially from my past experience, so I go to work, finish work, then I’m done!

Can you tell us how you work with your clients, from initial consultation to finished tattoo?

Usually we start with a chat about what the client wants. They’ll throw me a few ideas and trust me to come up with something juicy. I give them all the info they need before the appointment, then the night before I’ll send over a rough sketch to make sure they’re happy. If they want changes, we sort them then. On tattoo day, we slap it on, hop aboard the pain train, and usually end up with a happy client at the end!

What tips would you give someone starting out in tattooing, as well as for a client getting their first tattoo?

For anyone starting tattooing: draw, draw, and draw some more.

For your first tattoo: eat a big breakfast, bring snacks, and when the needle hits, just find your happy place.

What are the tattoo brands and products that you just can’t work without?

Magnummmmm, lube, and my Bishop Wand Packer.

What is your recommended aftercare routine, and do you have any tips to make the healing of tattoos easier?

I’ve tried loads of aftercare methods over the years, but honestly it comes down to keeping it simple – keep it clean and moisturised with a good aftercare cream.

What led you to creating your own tattoo convention, Anime TattCon?

I always wanted to push myself into something bigger. Being a massive anime fan and going to loads of conventions over the years – some with bad experiences – I wanted to create a better space for both artists and clients. Having a room full of nerds all into the same stuff as me just sounded unreal. It’s never been about money, just creating a good atmosphere and having a great time.

What makes Anime TattCon different from other conventions in the UK and Ireland?

There are loads of brilliant conventions out there, but anime-flavoured conventions just hit differently. Everyone’s there for the same reasons, no judging, no egos, just nerds enjoying the culture together. Seeing it all come together is such a good feeling.

Is there anything you can share about a possible season 3 of the convention?

We’re adding an extra day next year! There’s more exciting stuff coming too, but you’ll just have to wait and see…

How special was it for you seeing your daughter take to the stage in the cosplay contest?

Seeing my daughter on stage honestly made me cry. Hearing the crowd cheer for her was such an unreal feeling – definitely a core memory.

What did it mean to you to meet Pokémon theme song singer Jason Paige at this year’s convention and watch him perform?

Meeting Jason was surreal. When we first talked and he FaceTimed me, it felt mental. Then hearing that nostalgiac song live on stage with everyone singing along was a proper special moment. Such a nice guy too, so glad he agreed to come over.

What are your top 5 anime series that you would recommend to those getting into the genre?

My top 5 anime:

1. Attack on Titan
2. Frieren
3. Black Clover
4. Dragon Ball Z
5. Demon Slayer
   

I always tell people to start with Attack on Titan.

What games are you currently playing through, and which ones would you call your all-time favourites?

Right now I’m addicted to Pokopia. I had to take a short break after blasting 200 hours into it in the first few weeks. Spent about 10 hours building Machamp a dojo… Whenever I get spare time, I’m usually replaying the old Pokémon games too.

Pokémon Go is a huge part of my gameplay too – going to all the Pokémon events around the world.

You have just beaten the Elite Four, which six Pokémon are in your Hall of Fame team?

My Gen 1 Pokémon team would be:

• Venusaur
• Machamp
• Golem
• Primeape
• Diglett
• Gyarados
  

After a long day of tattooing, what helps you unwind and relax?

I’d go home, sit in my room, and stare at my Pokémon card collection… moving them around and admiring them, maybe tuck one into bed. Also watching Pokémon with the kids, as well as spending time with my beautiful partner, playing Pokémon together or doing puzzles.

Which character do you secretly want a client to request, but no one has yet?

I’d love to tattoo Bruno with his Pokémon team or Brock with his.

What’s the funniest or weirdest tattoo request you’ve ever had?

I tattooed angel wings on an elderly guy’s bum cheeks once. One wing had a Superman logo with a monkey hanging off it, and the other had a Scottish flag inside it. Definitely one of the weirdest ones…

Or a guy got his girlfriend’s initials on his penis…

What’s on your playlist when tattooing, in your headphones or out loud in the studio? Does it differ from your workout playlist?

My playlist is all over the place. Heavy metal, 2000s pop punk, anime soundtracks, and a hint of Britney Spears. Depends who I’m tattooing! I try not to melt the client’s ears, but everyone usually loves the anime playlist with a heavy metal flavour.

How do you balance running a convention and working as an artist with being a parent?

I don’t really balance it – I try! I’m a guy who’s always doing something I love it, but I always make time for my kids. That’s what matters most.

What is something you wish more people understood about balancing family life with tattooing?

Once work’s done, I’m with my family, so I need to switch off. I can’t reply to everyone all through the night.

Do you have any conventions currently lined up for the rest of 2026?

I’m doing the Belfast Tattoo Convention in three weeks. Nothing else fully lined up after that yet, but I’m planning to do a few more conventions this year.

What’s next for Mark Mccullough?

Finding all the rare candies, evolving into a better artist, and making Anime TattCon an even bigger and better show.

A huge thank you to Mark for taking part in our interview! Check out everything he has going on over on Instagram and TikTok – and don’t forget to follow @animetattcon.ni for all updates about the convention.