At Black Needle Tattoo, our team of talented artists is the heart and soul of our Oakland-based studio. Each artist brings a unique style, vision, and passion to their craft, creating tattoos that are as individual as the clients who wear them. Whether you’re looking for bold traditional designs, fine line detail, or custom artwork tailored to your story, our artists are here to collaborate and bring your ideas to life.
Our commitment to excellence goes beyond artistry. Each artist at Black Needle Tattoo adheres to the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and professionalism, ensuring a comfortable and positive experience for every client. Explore our artist profiles below to discover their portfolios, learn about their specialties, and find the perfect match for your next tattoo.
From first-timers to seasoned collectors, we’re here to make your tattoo journey unforgettable.
Ready to get started? Book a consultation with your favorite artist today and let’s create something extraordinary.
Alex Glenard
Alex, the owner and artist at Black Needle Tattoo in Oakland, has been perfecting his craft since 2008. With over 15 years of experience, Alex specializes in traditional French blackwork tattoos, known for their bold lines, dark shading, and timeless aesthetic. His passion for tattooing is rooted in delivering custom designs that capture each client’s unique story, blending traditional techniques with modern artistry.
Dedicated to creating an inclusive and eco-conscious tattoo studio, Alex brings a deep commitment to sustainability, using eco-friendly products and maintaining high hygiene standards. Clients describe his style as striking, clean, and bold—a hallmark of French blackwork tattooing. Alex believes in a collaborative approach to tattooing, working closely with clients to bring their visions to life in a comfortable, welcoming space.
Looking for a custom blackwork tattoo in Oakland? Book a consultation with Alex at Black Needle Tattoo to experience expert craftsmanship and a passion for art that’s unmatched.
Sam Kaso
Sam is an artist from Alameda, Ca. They attended art school locally, with a focus on mural design and creation, figure drawing, and painting.
Sam became drawn to tattooing because of the collaborative aspect. To them, working with another human to create art they will carry with them for a lifetime embodies the ideals of being a working artist who uses their skills to create and support community. As they learn and grow, their goal is to create tattoo work that will convey similar aspects to their personal work; a sense of play, immediacy, and vulnerability. At this stage of their apprenticeship, their tattoo designs focus on black work.