artists

Bunshinren is a fast growing Traditional Japanese Tattoo Studio located in Haymarket NSW Australia, run by tattoo masters Horigo (Chris Gibson) and Horihii (Hitomi Gibson). Over the past year the studio has grown to have 5 resident artists and plans to host exciting guests in the coming years. The studio is by appointment only – feel free to brows the artists below and make your appointment today.

What is Hori?

Traditional Japanese tattoo has its roots in classic ukiyo-e woodblock prints from the mid 1700s. Both woodblock carvers and tattoo artists are known in Japan as ‘horishi’, meaning ‘professional carver’. The word ‘hori’ comes from the verb ‘horu’, meaning ‘to carve’, and is commonly found in traditional Japanese tattoo names – an honorific given to tattoo artists.

CHRIS – HORIGO

Australian born of Japanese heritage, Chris spent 10 years living in Japan before coming back to Sydney, his home town in 2009. Whilst he was there he found his Japanese other half and fell in love with the Japanese ways.

Chris started tattooing in Japan in 2006. He was always been fascinated with Japanese body arts (Irezumi) and dove into the deep end studying and learning as much as he could about Traditional Japanese arts. Chris is influenced by old Japanese paintings and woodblock prints (ukiyoe), Artist such as Kuniyoshi, Kyosai, Hokusai and also many of his friends in the art industry.

Chris started out sculpting and painting before he started tattooing and always loved art as a child. He spends most of his time drawing, polishing his drawing skills to assist in his creation of original designs. He is always looking for new things and ideas.

Chris is keen to consult and draw up any type of Japanese project big or small. He has a vast knowledge of Japanese mythology and symbology and can help guide you through your tattooing journey.

Licence No. 103528

HITOMI – HORIHII

Horihii has been tattooing since 2001. Horihii is a Japanese resident artist. She has lived in Sydney Australia since 2009.

Horihii carries a vast knowledge and understanding of Japanese Arts. Being brought up with traditional old fashion parents, She carries a deep understanding of Japanese culture and can explain to you about the Japanese ways in detail. As a kid always being influenced by the traditional Nichibu and studding the Traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

Her mother wore Kimono (traditional Japanese Clothing), Horihii absolutely loved the fine patterns and designs on these Kimono’s witch she incorporates into her designs.

Horihii is always drawing and sketching in her spare time. She loves all types of art, Inspired from many different artists and traditional Japanese woodblock prints (ukiyoe) and many different types of art forms from Japanese contemporary arts.

Horihii has a bright and friendly personality and is always happy to consult and take on any type or Japanese projects large or small.

Please feel free to contact her with your ideas.

Licence No. 103450

Riku – Horishonen

Riku is a skilled tattoo artist hailing from Osaka, Japan. Since starting his tattooing journey in 2020, Riku has built a reputation for his exceptional artistry and dedication. With a dual base in Osaka and Sydney, Australia, he offers a unique fusion of cultural influences in his work.

Before transitioning to tattooing, Riku served with the Japan Self-Defense Forces, a background that has refined his precision and commitment. His lifelong passion for drawing seamlessly translated into his tattoo career, where he excels in various genres including Japanese, traditional, and black and grey styles.

Riku is known for his meticulous approach and genuine connection with clients, always striving to elevate his craft. Don’t miss the opportunity to work with Riku—contact us to book your session during his time in Sydney!

NSW Tattoo Permit VT-2024-0053

SAMMY

Sammy is a talented tattoo artist originally from Liaoning, China, who moved to New Zealand at the age of 14. With a background in glassblowing and creating 3D art and sculptures for six years, Sammy transitioned into the world of tattooing in 2018. He completed his apprenticeship under Julie Paama-Pengelly in Tauranga, New Zealand, and by 2021, Sammy began tattooing and guesting in Auckland before joining the team at Otautahi Tattoo Auckland.

In mid-2024, Sammy relocated to Sydney, Australia, to continue his tattoo journey in a new city. Known for his conceptual approach, Sammy excels in merging your ideas to create personalized tattoo designs. He prefers to have a consultation before booking to ensure a perfect plan for your tattoo.

Sammy’s expertise spans a variety of styles, including Neo Traditional, American Traditional, Neo Japanese, Lettering, Realistic, Geometric, and Fine Line.

Feel free to get in touch with him for any questions or to schedule your consultation!

Licence No. 109360