Alex Oberov Portfolio: Surreal Realism Tattoo Artist in San Diego
Master of Surreal Realism Tattoo Art
Alex Oberov is a renowned surreal realism tattoo artist with over 14 years of experience, bringing a creative vision shaped by his background in graffiti and photo/video art to develop his unique style. Originally from Moscow, Alex has lived in Wroclaw, Poland, and NYC, refining his craft and gaining recognition at tattoo conventions internationally.
Unlike traditional tattoo artists who focus on single artistic mediums, Alex brings a multidisciplinary approach to his craft. His diverse artistic background in graffiti and visual media allows him to connect with clients who appreciate technical excellence and creative vision that transforms ordinary concepts into extraordinary tattoo art through dynamic composition and bold contrast techniques.
Now based in San Diego, Alex creates tattoos rooted in realism, with a passion for surreal and fantasy themes. His artistic philosophy centers on using bold contrast to bring depth, crafting dynamic and cohesive compositions that flow naturally with the body. Alex's international experience and multidisciplinary background bring authentic artistic depth to surreal realism work, making each piece a true masterpiece that transforms skin into a canvas for extraordinary artistic expression.
Alex Oberov Portfolio: Experience & Background
Over 14 years of professional experience (since 2010)
Specializes in surreal realism and fantasy themes
Artistic background in graffiti and photo/video art
Recipient of awards at international tattoo conventions
Recognized and respected by other professional tattoo artists
International experience working in Wroclaw, Poland, and New York City
Originally from Moscow, Russia; now based in San Diego
Tattoo Work
Artistic Tattoo Style
This portfolio features the artist's specialty in black and grey realism with strong elements of surrealism and dark fantasy. His work often features portraits, mythological figures, and intricate, dreamlike compositions that push the boundaries of traditional tattoo artistry.
-
![Precise Line Work Foundation]()
Precise Line Work Foundation
While realism minimizes hard outlines, the underlying structure of Alex's tattoos is built on precise and clean line work. This technical foundation is evident in fine details such as hair, textures, and the sharp edges of objects within his complex compositions, demonstrating his multidisciplinary artistic training.
-
![Mystical Dark Tattoo]()
Masterful Shading and Tonal Range
This San Diego tattoo artist demonstrates exceptional control of shading techniques, using a wide range of black and grey tones to create remarkable depth and dimension. His shading is exceptionally smooth and well-blended, allowing him to create realistic textures from soft skin to rough stone. He strategically uses bold, solid blacks to create high contrast, making his tattoos visually striking and dynamic.
-
![]()
Complex Compositional Flow
Alex's compositions are often complex and flow harmoniously with the natural curves of the body. His talent for creating large-scale, cohesive pieces demonstrates both visual balance and thematic unity. His integration of surreal elements, such as distorted perspectives and fantastical imagery, adds unique and captivating qualities that reflect his international convention recognition.
-
![Alex tattoos]()
Exceptional Detail Precision
The level of detail in Alex's work reflects his 14+ years of experience and multidisciplinary background. He captures subtle nuances in facial expressions, intricate patterns of armor or clothing, and delicate textures of natural elements like feathers or fur. This meticulous attention to detail brings extraordinary realism and life to his surreal compositions.
Technical Summary
Alex Oberov demonstrates mastery of black and grey realism characterized by technical precision, artistic vision, and ability to create stunning surrealistic tattoos that are both beautiful and thought-provoking. His work combines his graffiti and photo/video art background with international experience to produce convention-quality pieces that explore the intersection of reality and imagination.
To view Alex's complete portfolio showcasing his black and grey realism with surreal and dark fantasy elements, clients can explore his professional work through established tattoo industry platforms and international convention appearances.
Signature Style: Bold Contrast and Dynamic Flow
Alex's innovative Bold Contrast and Dynamic Flow approach has become his signature philosophy as a surreal realism tattoo artist. This technique creates extraordinary visual impact through strategic contrast and composition that works harmoniously with the body's natural form, incorporating his multidisciplinary artistic background with international convention-level execution.
This style, rooted in his Moscow heritage and refined through international experience in Poland and NYC, allows him to create pieces that blend technical realism with imaginative themes while maintaining compositional excellence. His work explores the intersection of reality and fantasy, making each tattoo a conversation between technical precision and creative vision.
Surreal Realism Portfolio Highlights
Alex's work is characterized by:
Technical Excellence:
14+ years of refined surreal realism with international convention recognition
Multidisciplinary Innovation:
Graffiti and photo/video art background creating unique visual approaches
International Recognition:
Work recognized at tattoo conventions across multiple countries
Global Experience:
Artistic perspectives from Moscow, Poland, NYC, and San Diego. Has worked with multiple tattoo studios all over the world.
Bold Contrast Mastery:
Strategic use of light and dark for dimensional depth
Dynamic Composition:
Cohesive designs that flow naturally with body anatomy
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Pricing reflects my international recognition and 14+ years of experience in surreal realism work. Rates are provided during consultation and vary based on size, complexity, and the level of surreal and fantasy elements in the design concept. My convention-recognized work and multidisciplinary background make this a premium artistic investment.
-
I specialize in surreal realism rooted in realistic foundations with a passion for surreal and fantasy themes. This approach allows me to combine technical precision with imaginative elements, using bold contrast and dynamic composition to create extraordinary pieces that explore the intersection of reality and imagination.
-
Session length varies based on complexity and the level of detail required for surreal and fantasy elements. Surreal realism requires careful execution of both realistic foundations and imaginative components, so I never rush the artistic process. Smaller pieces may take 4-6 hours, while larger dynamic compositions can require multiple sessions to achieve convention-quality results.
-
Every piece I create is custom surreal realism work designed to bring your vision to life in extraordinary ways. I don't work from flash or existing designs - each tattoo is individually crafted to explore your personal connection to surreal and fantasy themes while maintaining my signature bold contrast and dynamic flow aesthetic.
-
This approach combines my multidisciplinary background in graffiti and visual media with international convention-level execution. As a surreal realism artist, I create pieces that balance technical precision with imaginative themes, using strategic contrast and composition techniques that have earned recognition at international tattoo conventions.
-
Since my work has gained international recognition, booking requires advance planning. Contact me directly to discuss your surreal realism vision. My San Diego appointments for convention-quality work fill up quickly due to the detailed nature of surreal and fantasy compositions.
-
My consultation process involves exploring your vision for surreal and fantasy elements while discussing how to integrate them with realistic foundations. I'll explain how to incorporate "Bold Contrast and Dynamic Flow" elements into your concept, making sure the final piece achieves extraordinary visual impact that flows naturally with your body.
-
Absolutely! Surreal and fantasy themes are my passion. I love creating pieces that explore the intersection of reality and imagination, using my international experience and multidisciplinary background to bring extraordinary visions to life through convention-quality surreal realism execution.
Book Your Appointment with a Surreal Realism Tattoo Artist in San Diego
Ready to work with Alex Oberov? As a renowned surreal realism tattoo artist in San Diego with over 14 years of international experience, Alex brings both technical precision and imaginative vision to every design. His unique approach to surreal and fantasy themes, coupled with his multidisciplinary background and convention recognition, makes him the ideal choice for those seeking extraordinary tattoos that push the boundaries of traditional realism. With expertise in bold contrast techniques and dynamic compositions, Alex creates pieces that transform your vision into extraordinary artistic expression.
Connect with Alex and let this tattoos artist extraordinary just for you. His expertise in surreal realism, fantasy concepts, and international convention-quality execution makes sure your vision will be brought to life with the bold contrast and dynamic flow that defines his signature style.
Service Area Coverage
Our San Diego tattoo shop proudly serves San Diego including but not limited to:
You can find artist from us who covers Downtown San Diego, Gaslamp Quarter, Golden Hill, South Park, Hillcrest, Mission Hills, North Park, City Heights, Point Loma, Ocean Beach, Mission Valley, Pacific Beach, Old Town, Bay Park, Logan Heights, Barrio Logan, Encanto, College Area, Rolando, Normal Heights, Kensington, Coronado.
ZIP Codes: 92101, 92102, 92103, 92104, 92105, 92106, 92107, 92108, 92109, 92110, 92113, 92114, 92115, 92116, 92118
Oberov and other artists also serve areas within a 50 mile radius:
San Diego proper and all historic neighborhoods
La Jolla and Del Mar
Chula Vista and National City
El Cajon and Santee
Carlsbad and Encinitas
All of San Diego County
Follow Eric's Black and Grey Tattoo Work
Stay updated with Alex's latest surreal creations and see his incredible portfolio in action:
Check Alexander Oberov portfolio on Instagram.
Explore tattoos from Alex' work to see his newest surreal realism pieces, behind-the-scenes insights into his international approach, and examples of the bold contrast and dynamic compositions that continue to gain recognition at tattoo conventions worldwide.