Sanderson Felipe: The Alchemist of Black & White Realism

1. Meet Sanderson Felipe

PEPAX is honored to present Sanderson Felipe – visionary founder of Brazil’s iconic Art Clinic studio and global authority in black and white realism.

With 17 years of tattooing experience, Sanderson Felipe is specializing in black and white realism tattoos. This style is defined by precise shading, rich texture, and striking contrasts — all enhanced by the absence of color, which draws full focus to depth and emotion. Sanderson has mastered the art of transforming skin into emotionally charged, lifelike canvases. For him, tattooing is more than a craft — “it’s not just what I do, it’s who I am.”

Diluted Ink Shading: Layering different black and gray tones to create smooth, realistic shadows and a full range of depth.

Fine Linework: Using ultra-thin needles to capture tiny details like hair, lashes, and skin texture — essential for true realism.

Negative Space: Leaving uninked areas to create natural highlights and contrast, making the design stand out and feel balanced.

Sanderson excels at turning clients’ stories into timeless tattoos. He listens closely to their visions and transforms them into detailed, emotionally rich designs. Each piece, as he puts it, is “a manifestation of love for art and the trust placed in me” — a balance between the client’s wishes and his artistic integrity.

2. The Art Clinic Legacy

Art Clinic stands as a testament to Sanderson's journey - a studio born 17 years ago from humble beginnings:

"We kicked off our project with a lot of desire, little funds, a lot of study, dedication, focus and a relentless pursuit of high quality standards."

Today, it's evolved into what Sanderson calls "a family" - a creative sanctuary where talented artists positively impact everyone who enters. This family ethos extends to clients, whom he gratefully calls "patients" for their trust in the studio's vision.

3. Defining Moments: The Realism Revelation

Sanderson’s journey reveals how conviction shapes mastery:

Awakening (14 yrs old): Defied parental prejudice with a homemade tattoo machine.

Epiphany: Recognized tattooing as artistic expression when society dismissed it.

Destiny: Embraced realism after discovering its demand for "meticulous detail and constant evolution".
His artistic compass remains fixed on surpassing limits: "True satisfaction comes from transcending yourself with every line and shadow."

4. Trusted Tools: Sanderson’s Experience with PEPAX

As a long-time professional in tattooing, Sanderson chooses his tools carefully. His trust in PEPAX machines and cartridges is rooted in over 17 years of experience, and he shares honest feedback from regular use:

“These are the best cartridges I’ve ever worked with — flawless soldering, perfect configuration. It’s clear this brand is raising the standard for quality.”

He points out how RL Needles and Magnum types often had flaws in other brands, but with PEPAX: “This one exceeded all expectations.”

On the PEPAX Leve wireless machine, Sanderson praises its power and versatility: “It’s strong for lining, smooth for shading, and just feels different from anything else I’ve used. Plus, it looks beautiful and comes fully equipped with two batteries and adapter.” Curious about the details? Click here to know more.

He’s shared product demos and reviews via Instagram Reels, often showing close-ups of needle craftsmanship and machine performance in action.

This isn’t just brand loyalty—it’s performance-tested confidence. Sanderson’s feedback reinforces that PEPAX tools don’t just support quality—they enhance it.

5. The Realist's Manifesto

For Sanderson, tattooing transcends technique:

Artistic Mission: "Break down stigmas through artistic expression"

Human Connection: "An immeasurable privilege to immortalize stories on skin"

Legacy Building: "We're just at the beginning of something greater"

His closing words resonate with every artist:

"My heart overflows with gratitude for having found my passion. Tattooing is the essence of my being, engraved in every project that leaves our studio."

Click to Sanderson's ins to follow his ongoing journey!