Brett Semrick | Japanese Inspired Tattoos in San Diego

Tattoo artist tattooing a person's arm in a tattoo shop.

My story

I’m Brett Semrick, a tattoo artist based at Remington Tattoo in San Diego, with 23 years experience.

My roots are traditionally based. I started tattooing in small town Alabama, learning discipline, linework, and respect for the craft the old way, one custom piece at a time. From there I have spent years guesting and doing residencies in shops across the country. With that experience, I bring a unique perspective and deep discipline to every piece.

That road eventually led me to California, and I stayed for the surf. The water is why I moved and it is why I stayed. That same rhythm of patience, flow, and reading movement is in everything I do.

A man holding a yellow surfboard on a sidewalk with a chain-link fence and green bushes in the background.

A black and white abstract illustration of a dragon's face with intricate lines and details, surrounded by a pink circular border containing social media handles and website links.

Driven by passion

My work is Japanese at its core. Drawing inspiration from classic woodblock prints and legendary folklore, I designs pieces rooted in tradition but built to fit the modern body. I work in both color and black and grey, with a strong focus on black and grey.

My love for Japanese culture runs deeper than tattooing. From folklore and woodblock prints to the quiet discipline of bonsai, I study the balance, negative space and respect for nature that makes Japanese art timeless. It is the same discipline I find in surfing and bring to tattooing.

Every piece is custom drawn to you, to flow with your body and hold for years.

Based at Remington Tattoo, 3009 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92103. Consultations are always free.