Heath Clifford

How did you get your start in the tattoo game and how did you settle on the style that you're known for? 

I was raised in New Zealand but apprenticed in Australia. During my career I’ve bounced back and forth between the two. Back then, I was actually tattooing a different style (you can still view on @hcneotrad). In fact, that’s probably what I was most known for. About 7 years into my career I was gravitating more and more towards that nice classic foundation but I still try to put my own spin on it. 

Is it safe to say you prefer black and grey to color? Why so or why not? 

I would say that’s accurate. My main reason for preferring black and grey is that I think it just looks more cohesive and ages nice. Some stuff does just look more impactful and better in color though; like a nice bright red rose. I guess it really depends how I’m feeling on the day.

When it comes to designs that require lots of repeating shapes like the scales on a dragon or feathers on a peacock, how do you keep your lines looking consistent? 

I used to actually care more about keeping things like scales or feathers super uniform but to be honest, I kinda like the look when they are more slightly inconsistent now. It gives it a more human-made, organic feel. So many tattoos are made on iPads with tools that shortcut drawing by hand and consequently, this causes the tattoo design to lose that unique personal style. 

You pack a ton of solid black patches into your tattoos. How do you fill in all that color without overworking the skin? 

Experience. Like everyone else, I've had my fair share of trial and error. Using lots of black I feel is very important. I want my tattoos to look pretty bold.

What gets you most excited about starting bigger projects like full back pieces or torsos? 

My favorite projects are the large scale pieces. They look so tough once completed. Seeing somebody with a full back tattoo when you know how painful back tattoos are, just makes it even more impressive. It's also awesome building that relationship with your client over multiple-day sessions.

Can you describe the main differences between tattooing at your old spot in Melbourne vs your current studio in Cromwell? 

It’s hard to keep up with where I am based sometimes. I’ve had my own studio in Cromwell, New Zealand for a few years but during that time I’ve lived in the UK, Melbourne and I’m currently living in Newcastle, Australia. I travel often and have regular clients in different locations, which I am super grateful for. Working from my own studio is so nice but I also love meeting and working alongside other artists around the world!

How did you connect with our friend from Issue 6, Bryce Oprandi? 

Through our mutual friend Josh Todaro, who I work with in Melbourne at his studio, The Grand Illusion. I think Josh helped him paint his first studio before he relocated to Highland Park. Bryce is the best. I’m always excited to hangout at his shop in LA.

When you're making merch like flags and tees, how do you narrow down which designs to use? 

I’ll usually make a few different designs then get friend’s opinions on what they are feeling. I’d love to get more on the merch game but sadly, shipping internationally from NZ & AUS hardly makes it worth the time now. 

Any connections in the skateboarding world we should know about?

I would say skateboarding was the main reason I got into tattooing! Though I don’t skate anymore, I still love watching videos. This young generation is out the gate, the skill level is insane! One connection that stands out: I have tattooed Elliot Sloan multiple times now and most recently tattooed him out at his place in San Diego.

Originally published in Issue 7 - December 2025