As tattoo culture continues to evolve, National Tattoo Day offers a moment to reflect on the artistry, meaning, and self-expression behind every piece of ink. For Bushwick-based tattoo artist Devin Noir, better known as Devil May Cry Tattoo, it’s not about what’s trending. It’s about what resonates. Known for his intricate blackwork and motifs, Devin uses tattooing as a medium for both visual storytelling and personal transformation.
“For me, a tattoo that’s ‘worth it’ is entirely about the emotional experience it brings to the person wearing it,” Devin says.
That experience, he explains, doesn’t have to be grand or symbolic. It can be silly, lighthearted, or deeply personal, as long as it makes the wearer feel something meaningful. “I believe the true value of a tattoo lies in how it makes someone feel—whether that’s joy, empowerment, nostalgia, or even healing.”
Tattoos That Grow With You
For collectors looking to elevate their ink, Devin encourages revisiting the often-ignored role of filler tattoos. Especially with the rise of patchwork sleeves, filler work can help turn a disconnected series of pieces into a cohesive visual story.
“One of the most effective ways to elevate an existing tattoo collection, especially for those with patchwork sleeves, is through filler tattoos,” he explains.
On his own arm, Devin uses dark, thorny branches to connect past pieces. For others, he suggests floral or vine motifs for fine line tattoos, or bold tribal and cyber elements for traditional designs. “The key is to choose a filler style that contrasts or complements your existing work while still supporting your personal aesthetic.”
Creative Freedom First
As for what he’d tattoo on ten people in a row for National Tattoo Day, there’s no one answer. What matters, Devin says, is that it speaks to the individual.
“Honestly, I welcome anything that allows people to express themselves authentically… National Tattoo Day should celebrate creative freedom, not limit it.”
Still, for those looking for a little direction, Devin offered five styles that he believes are especially worth considering, each one backed by purpose, beauty, and personal evolution
worth considering. Each carries artistic merit, emotional depth, or both.
1. Biomech
This style is both unsettling and beautiful. It demands a high level of technical precision and is heavily inspired by the work of H.R. Giger, whose aesthetic you’ll recognize if you’ve seen Alien. Biomech is visually striking and always makes a statement.
2. Hybridization (Mixed Styles)
Combining two or more styles into a single design, like mixing neo-traditional with cyber or blackwork, leads to something truly personal. Hybridization is where innovation happens in tattooing and is a great way to evolve with your own collection.
3. Expansion or Enhancement Work
Devin encourages people to revisit and build upon their existing tattoos. Whether it’s adding new elements or reworking older designs, enhancement tattoos allow your body art to grow with you—and that can be really meaningful.
4. Traditional Japanese
Traditional Japanese tattooing is a beautiful, time-honored style that combines storytelling, symbolism, and intricate technique. It’s one of the most visually powerful styles out there.
5. Cyber Sigilism
Devin’s signature style blends futuristic lines with natural patterns, often inspired by circuitry, branches, river systems, and even topographic maps. It’s modern, symbolic, and despite being relatively new, has deep emotional potential. “It represents the evolution of tribal tattooing for this generation.”
For those still searching for the right design, Devin keeps his Instagram Flash highlight full of ideas he’s eager to bring to life. “I only post Flash I genuinely want to create,” he says.
His message this National Tattoo Day is simple. Choose what makes you feel something real. A great tattoo isn’t about impressing others—it’s about recognizing yourself.
