Handpoke artist Grace Neutral has made a huge name for herself in the world of tattooing with her take on blackwork mandala and geometric work!

Working out of her own studio Femme Fatale in London, Grace brings together an eclectic group of artists, each with their own distinct style.

We spoke to Grace about who inspired her at the beginning of her career, her list of major body modifications, and what her dream tattoo session would look like!

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a ballerina.

What drew you to hand poking specifically?

Honestly it was the only accessible way to learn at the time because machines were hard to get and finding someone to teach you was difficult as well, but I quickly fell in love with the technique and knew I didn’t want to tattoo any other way.

Who helped or inspired you the most at the beginning of your career?

There were many amazing artists who inspired me, but some of my biggest inspirations were Thomas Hooper and Xed.

When did you set up Femme Fatale, and who works there with you?

I started Femme Fatale in 2018 - currently I have Lucy Barker, Holly, Kiko Lopes, Futura Bombarda, Charlotte Moran, Tash Pencil and Okay!

Can you describe the vibes in your studio?

PURE LOVE AND GOOD VIBES ALWAYS! We love an eclectic playlist and some good banter with our customers!

What is your typical client like?

Cute as pie and full of laughs! We are so blessed to have the kindest customers!

Where do you find inspiration for your flash sheets?

Everywhere! Music, travel, nature, cities…anything and everything can inspire.

How often do you do collaboration pieces, and is there anyone you’d really love to collaborate with?

I love collaborative work, whether that be collaboration with a customer, another artist, or even a creative company. I love working with other creatives - that’s also another huge source of inspiration, getting to see how other artists create.

Which tattoo artists are doing amazing work right now?

Wow what a question! Sway and Jemma from Sacred Electric Tattoo in Leeds have been killing it for many years and their work never disappoints me - they are two of my favourite tattooers for their work and work ethic as well as their amazing energy!

 As for newer artists I’m constantly shocked and impressed by the way new tattooers are adapting and evolving!

Can you tell us about your collaboration with InkBox and the temporary tattoos you’ve designed?

I was lucky enough to be asked to design some tattoos for InkBox who sell them through their website! As far as temporary tattoos they really are the best for that realistic look!

What would your dream tattoo session be like?

A large-scale piece (sleeve, back piece etc) all done in 4-6 consecutive days! Not for the faint hearted but still, you would be surprised how far you can push your mind and body!

I recently started and finished a full back piece in 4 days when I was on a trip to Oakland, it was such a vibe and being locked in for those days meant I was able to fully tune in and get the tattoo done effortlessly - it’s moments like that which elevate my love of tattooing to higher levels every day.

Is it stressful to do tattoos on hands and faces where they’re most easily seen?

No, they’re my favourite places to tattoo and I feel honoured when people trust me with such prime real estate.

Are there any tattoo styles you’d like to try but haven’t had the chance?

My style is always evolving and growing, and I really enjoy doing more traditional tattoos as well as my usual geometric madness.

Can you tell us about your workstation please?

 Wow, you’re getting personal!

I use a range of different needles on the bar and as far as the set up I’m pretty simple - cling film and a dental bib to cover my station, then just some H2Ocean CBD balm, a wash bottle and some gloves and tissue... and of course, a can of Dynamic Black Ink!

For cleaning, I always use medical grade Distel to wipe down everything!

Can you tell us about your body modifications and tattoos?

I have my eyes tattooed, tongue split, ears pointed, and navel removed... also some scarification on my face.

Do you make any art outside of tattooing?

Yes! I draw and craft - I love making cute things and drawing bad ass shit!

What will people find in your book Neutral, and where can they find it?

You will find a collection of my drawings and some photos from my travel adventures - it also has a foreword written by Lal Hardy and my late GREAT legendary brother NORM! You can buy it at femmefatalelondon.com <3

How do you relax after a long day of tattooing?

Walk the dogs, draw on the sofa with some shit telly on in the background, and endless crafting hobbies!

Do you have any conventions or guest spots lined up for 2024?

Yes! I’ll be at Brighton at the end of February as well at my annual guest spots in LA and California... and, of course, Gods Of Ink!

What does the future hold for Grace Neutral and Femme Fatale?

Possibilities are endless and abundant and I’m so grateful for all the blessings I have had with Femme Fatale! I like to keep my cards close to my chest, but best believe big things are happening and I’m so excited to share it with you all!!!

We hope you’ve enjoyed our chat with the wonderful Grace Neutral – don’t forget to check out her work on Instagram and Facebook, or visit Femme Fatale for yourself!