Iman Ali Tirmizi
Tattoo Artist and Oil Painter in Chicago, IL
Iman Ali Tirmizi
Tattoo Artist and Oil Painter in Chicago, IL
I’m a Chicago-based tattoo artist and oil painter originally from just outside Anchorage, Alaska. Growing up surrounded by mountains, forests, and long winters had a huge impact on the way I see the world and the way I create art. A lot of my work is inspired by nature, silence, and the feeling of isolation that came with growing up in a quieter environment.
I started drawing at a young age and became interested in tattooing as a teenager after being introduced to it by friends. I taught myself through repetition, long hours, and constant practice, eventually developing a style focused on minimalist wilderness imagery, including mountains, forests, and wildlife. At nineteen, I moved to Chicago looking for more creative opportunities and a chance to grow both personally and professionally.
Today, I work as a tattoo artist while continuing to paint in my free time. My oil paintings often combine memories of Alaska with the textures and movement of city life in Chicago. I’m passionate about creating work that feels honest and personal rather than trend-driven. For me, art has always been about observation, reflection, and staying connected to where I came from while continuing to evolve creatively.