Houston's Specialist in Cover-Ups & Large Scale Realism
Turn Regret Into Artwork You'll Be Proud To Wear For Life.
Custom cover-ups, black & grey realism, and large-scale masterpieces designed for people who refuse to settle for average.
Serving Houston, Katy, and clients who travel from across the country for truly custom work.
The Artist
Meet Rafael Galvão
Most tattoo artists focus on putting ink on skin.
Rafael focuses on creating artwork that belongs on your body.
With over a decade dedicated to realism, composition, and artistic development, Rafael has built a reputation for transforming ideas, stories, and even unwanted tattoos into pieces that command attention.
Every project is designed from scratch.
Every detail serves a purpose.
Every tattoo is built to age beautifully.
Because a great tattoo shouldn't just look impressive on day one. It should look incredible ten years from now.
Specialities
What Clients Travel For
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Cover-Ups
Not every tattoo deserves removal. Some deserve redemption...
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Large Scale Realism
Sleeves. Back pieces. Leg sleeves. Full projects. Designed as one cohesive composition rather than disconnected tattoos.
Your Old Tattoo Doesn't Have To Define You
Thousands of people spend years hiding tattoos they regret. Long sleeves. Excuses. Embarrassment.
Rafael helps clients reclaim that space with custom cover-up designs that completely transform the appearance and meaning of existing tattoos.
What was once something you wanted to hide becomes something you're proud to show.
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Portfolio
Custom Cover Ups Solutions
Everyone deserves to wear artwork they are proud to carry. If your tattoo no longer reflects who you are, Rafael can transform it into something meaningful and uniquely yours. Through thoughtful design, artistic vision, and expert craftsmanship, Ink Galvão specializes in custom cover-ups that turn unwanted ink into timeless artwork you'll be proud to wear for a lifetime.
Beyond Tattooing
Artist, Studio Owner & Educator
Rafael is the founder of Ink Galvao, a studio based in Houston, TX, built on a commitment to artistic excellence, craftsmanship, and continuous growth. Through tattooing, painting, and education, he is dedicated to helping shape the next generation of artists while continuing to evolve his own craft.
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Ink Academy
A refined introductory experience designed for beginners starting their journey in professional tattooing and developing a strong foundation in realism.
This course is structured around clarity, fundamentals, and hands-on guidance, offering insight into Galvao’s approach to technique, composition, and safe studio practice.
- Understand professional tattoo studio practices and workflow
- Set up and maintain a safe, professional workstation
- Learn the fundamentals of machines, needles, cartridges, and voltage
- Execute basic linework, shading, and packing techniques
- Develop an introduction to realism and composition
- Gain confidence through guided practice and mentorship
Monthly classes with limited enrollment.
Interested in joining an upcoming session? Complete the form below to apply.
A Different Tattoo Experience
This isn't a walk-in shop. This isn't rushed tattooing. This isn't a design pulled from a wall.
Every project begins with a detailed consultation where Rafael learns your vision, evaluates your ideas, and develops a custom strategy for your tattoo.
Many clients travel hours or even fly in because they understand something important:
You only wear a tattoo for the rest of your life. Choosing the right artist matters.
Book a Session
Please read carefully before submitting a request.
Read this before reaching out
- Rafael exclusively works in Large realistic pieces and Cover Ups. Another styles projects are accepted selectively.
- Cover-ups, reworks, and restorations are evaluated individually. Acceptance is based on artistic suitability and final approval by the artist.
- All sessions are held exclusively in Houston (Katy area). Guest spots or travel appointments are available.
- Rafael works strictly by appointment only. Walk-ins are not accepted. All projects must be pre-booked and confirmed in advance.
- Every session operates under strict professional standards, including a controlled environment, premium equipment, and uncompromising hygiene protocols.