From running a studio in Greece to earning recognition across the U.S. convention circuit, Big Tez (Teri) has built a career grounded in technical precision and an uncompromising commitment to quality. After relocating to the U.K., he shifted his focus toward large-scale black and grey realism, creating work that’s bold, balanced, and built to last. Whether he’s tattooing, traveling, or mentoring up-and-coming artists, Big Tez continues to evolve not by chasing trends, but by defining his own standard for what exceptional tattooing should be.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
My name is Teri, but in the tattoo world I’m known as Big Tez.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
I was always arty as a child, but my real love for tattooing came when I actually started doing it. It was just perfect for me. I was doing something I loved and was around people I enjoyed being around.
At what point in your life did you become a professional tattoo artist?
I think I considered myself professional when I moved back to England. I had been tattooing in Greece for around four years, where I also had my own shop in a tourist area. But I was only doing small holiday tattoos. When I moved back to England, I started creating more elaborate pieces. This is where I really started treating tattooing as art.
How do you balance creativity with the client’s personal vision?
This is one of the hardest battles in tattooing: trying to create something new and out of the box while being constrained by the customer’s ideas. With experience, I learned to work with clients in a way where I can still be creative while staying true to what they want.
How would you define your current tattoo style and how did you end up focusing on it?
At the moment, I mainly do black and grey realism. This is what I progressed in faster than other styles. I love the challenge of recreating images in my own way, and I also focus on making tattoos that heal well, not just look good in photos. I think that’s something that’s slowly being lost in tattooing.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Trying to do new things. There are so many incredible artists out there doing all sorts of new styles, it’s becoming harder and harder to make your work stand out. But that’s also a good thing because it keeps everyone pushing boundaries.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in UK these days?
The tattoo scene in England is big, although the convention scene seems to be dying at the moment, which is sad because conventions are the heart and soul of this trade.
What do you think about the world of tattoo conventions in general?
I love conventions. They’re by far my favorite part of this job. I love being around people who love the industry.
Did you ever participate in any tattoo contest?
I’ve participated in numerous conventions all over America, following the Villain Arts tour, and have won several awards.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
I like meeting new people, discussing ideas with artists, learning. It’s just the best part of this job, being around like-minded people.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for the artists and the public?
I think America has the convention scene nailed. The Europeans could definitely learn from the Americans when it comes to organization. In Europe, it’s all about who wins what, which is great, but there’s more to the tattoo scene than who wins the most trophies.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far, and why?
Probably the Chicago Tattoo Convention. It’s huge, with over 1500 artists in the same building. An absolutely incredible show.
What advice would you give to first-time artists attending or working at a convention?
Organization. Make sure you have everything. You’ll still forget something and there’s always something but staying organized is key.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
If your heart’s not in it, don’t bother. It takes a lot of hard work, late nights, beating yourself up, pushing yourself. If your heart’s not in it, you’ll give up. But if it is, the rewards are endless.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
My biggest accomplishments are the awards I’ve managed to win in America. It’s something I’m very proud of. Tattooing in the U.S. was always a dream and definitely a major milestone in my career.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I’m always trying to push myself with fresh ideas and techniques.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Yes, I’m sponsored by Tattoo Everything Supplies and Thermatekk. I’m so grateful to have their support.
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