MEET WORLD RENOWNED
TATTOO ARTIST
RYAN ETERNAL
Season 5 of Ink Master
You might recognize Ryan Eternal from Season 5 of Ink Master, where he wowed audiences with his excellent skills and fresh ideas. His time on the show wasn’t just about competing—it was about showing the world what’s possible when passion meets talent.
With over two decades of experience, he has earned a reputation as a skilled tattoo artist with an eye for intricate detail and a deep respect for the history and evolution of tattooing. His work reflects a fusion of precision, storytelling, and emotion, setting him apart in the tattoo community. For many, it sparked a new dream of diving into the tattoo industry and learning how to become a tattoo artist.
Ryan's journey through the competitive landscape of Ink Master and his ongoing contributions to the tattoo community underscore his passion and commitment to the art form.
Beyond tattooing, Ryan embodies the lifestyle of an all-or-nothing artist. His commitment to the industry is evident not only in his technical skill but in how he approaches tattooing as a mindset that demands discipline, creativity, and authenticity. His career spans years of working in renowned tattoo studios, learning from some of the best, and constantly refining his technique. He proudly wears his career on his skin, reflecting his dedication to the craft.
Follow Mat Ryan on Instagram to see more of his latest work.
RYAN ETERNAL'S LATEST TATTOOS
Ryan Eternal’s latest Tattoos are a testament to his love for both traditional and modern tattooing techniques. His recent pieces highlight a blend of storytelling, bold design, and meticulous detail, capturing the essence of his subjects with striking realism and depth.
One standout piece from his recent portfolio is Horror Mashup (Edward Scissorhands x Freddy Krueger x Sleeping Beauty). It mashes horror and innocence with a heavy emphasis on contrast and narrative. Edward's stylized eyes, Freddy’s grotesque realism, and Aurora’s soft, dreamy vibe create brilliant visual tension. The subtle pink tones pull it together, and the composition flows like a twisted fairy tale.
Another highlight is his Masked Woman with "Honey Dip" Script. This one is slick — photorealistic face, cartoon-style emoji speech bubble, graffiti-esque script. It’s like a mural on skin. The balance of realism in the woman’s expression and the comic-style elements above and below keeps it playful and edgy simultaneously. That "Honey Dip" script punches with flair and attitude.
Ryan also recently completed a Simba with Watercolor Splashes, Clean cartoon-style Simba paired with abstract sketch lines and a burst of watercolor texture — this one's expressive, light-hearted, and playful. The paint-like splashes give it that freeform, artsy feel while the character remains clearly defined—the outstanding balance of structure and looseness.
His Realistic Joker Portrait (Heath Ledger) is another excellent display of his versatility. The texture in this is intense. You can feel the grit in the Joker’s expression, the light brushing across his face, and the raw energy of the scene. The background blends smoothly into the skin without harsh edges, which gives the whole piece a cinematic vibe—Classic Ryan Eternal depth and drama.
Another highlight is his Abstract - Crow & Geometric Chest Piece This is where Ryan gets experimental. The crow is raw, sketched, and layered over sharp hexagonal geometry and dotwork elements. The use of red against black and gray pops, and the Roman numerals add a personal touch. It's chaotic yet calculated—perfect for someone who likes their tattoos loud and symbolic.
Through every piece, whether inspired by personal journeys, mythological symbolism, or bold, timeless designs, Mat Ryan continues to elevate his craft and push boundaries.
What Makes Ryan Eternal's Tattoo Style So Unique?
Ryan Eternal's tattoo style is deeply rooted in the art of precision, contrast, and emotion. His work spans black-and-grey realism and bold, illustrative designs, demonstrating his versatility and expertise. He uniquely can create hyper-detailed pieces with intricate textures, depth, and shading that bring each tattoo to life.
Some defining characteristics of his style include:
Strong, expressive contrasts – His black-and-grey work is known for its seamless gradients and ability to convey emotion through stark contrasts.
- Deep storytelling elements – His tattoos aren’t just inked on the skin; they carry meaning, often weaving mythology, personal narratives, or classic symbolism into the composition.
- A perfect balance of tradition and modernity – While embracing timeless tattooing techniques, Mat also integrates contemporary elements that give his work a fresh and cutting-edge feel.
Ryan Eternal is also a fan of high-quality tattoo equipment and works with Dringenberg Tattoo Machines, which is known for its precision and durability.
Ryan Eternal’s Philosophy
How Does Ryan Eternal’s Philosophy Transform Tattooing?
Ryan Eternal doesn’t just see tattooing as a job—it’s a way of life. His philosophy centers around the idea that tattooing is more than ink; it’s a rhythm, a mindset, and a connection. As he puts it, “Tattooing isn’t just work; it’s a rhythm, a mindset, a connection. Every piece I create is a reflection of years of dedication, a conversation without words, a moment that lasts forever”
He believes in accountability, growth, and self-improvement, both as a tattoo artist and as a person. In a recent reflection, he shared his journey of self-growth, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes, taking responsibility, and striving for constant evolution. This mindset extends to his tattooing—he never stops refining his skills, experimenting with new techniques, and pushing creative boundaries.
Ryan also champions respect for the tools of the trade, ensuring that every tattoo machine, every stroke, and every pigment choice is made with intention. His commitment to craftsmanship is evident in how he treats the process, from his workstation setup to the final execution of each piece.
Do you want to become a tattoo artist who stands out? In that case, Ryan's philosophy ensures you’ll leave his mentorship with the skills to create unforgettable tattoos and the mindset to thrive as a tattoo artist who truly connects with their clients and their craft.
How Master Mentorship with Mat Ryan Would Transform Your Tattoo Journey
Learning under Mat Ryan isn’t just about improving technical skill—it’s about developing a mindset that will set you apart in the industry. His mentorship is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience, refine your artistic approach, and adopt the discipline required to excel as a tattoo artist.
As a mentor, Mat focuses on:
- Mastering black-and-grey and realism techniques – Understanding light, shadow, and skin tone contrast to create lifelike pieces.
Building a strong foundation in traditional tattooing – Learning the importance of precision, linework, and consistency.
- Tattoo machine handling and setup – Optimizing tools for efficiency and longevity.
- Developing storytelling in tattoos – Creating meaningful pieces that go beyond aesthetics and hold deeper personal or mythological narratives.
- The mindset of a professional artist – How to handle clients, maintain professionalism, and continue evolving as an artist.
For anyone serious about taking their tattoo career to the next level, Mat Ryan’s mentorship offers a chance to refine technical ability and build the confidence, resilience, and artistic identity needed to succeed.
Mat Ryan is the perfect guide if you’re looking for a mentor who will push you to be your best, refine your craft, and develop an unshakable artistic identity. His experience, philosophy, and passion for the tattoo industry make him an invaluable mentor for aspiring tattoo artists.
This is your opportunity to learn from one of the best. Connect with Mat Ryan today and start your journey toward mastering the art of tattooing!
Become a Tattoo Artist in USA
Join the $2.2B Tattoo Economy – Your Journey to Artistic Success Starts Here!
The tattoo industry is booming, with a global market value of $2.2 billion and growing. It offers endless opportunities for aspiring artists to turn their passion into a lucrative career. From creative expression to financial independence, the industry is thriving like never before.
$51511
Average First-year Income of a Tattoo Artist in USA
21000+
Tattoo Studios in USA and Growing !
$106868
According to Zip Recruiter, Average Annual Income of a Tattoo Artist in USA
