About Francis Merlyn Doody
Tattoo Artist and Jeweller
Francis Merlyn Doody is a hand-poke tattoo artist and jeweller based in Mid Wales. He tattoos at Sang Bleu London and Studio Pragma Bristol, creating custom work entirely by hand without the use of a tattoo machine.
Francis specialises in sacred geometry, symbolic imagery and precise blackwork. Each tattoo begins as an original drawing, often constructed by hand using pencil, ruler and compass before being adapted to the body and applied dot by dot.
His interest in drawing and making began at an early age. Francis learned drawing techniques from his father, a wildlife artist and naturalist, and explored blacksmithing alongside his mother. These early experiences developed into a practice centred on traditional techniques and work made carefully by hand.
Alongside tattooing, Francis creates handmade sterling silver jewellery. Working within the tradition of memento mori jewellery, his rings, pendants, earrings and sculptural pieces develop from the same geometric drawings and symbolic forms found throughout his tattoo work.
Whether working in silver or ink, Francis designs each piece individually, bringing together drawing, craftsmanship and a close attention to detail.
