
Lexus has revealed what it says is the world’s first tattooed car, a Lexus UX Compact SUV that has been designed by London tattoo artist Claudia De Sabe. This innovative project merges the worlds of automotive design and body art, creating a truly unique and visually stunning vehicle.
The video below gives us a look at how this was created, it looks like a serious amount of work went into creating this unique vehicle.
In a celebration of fine craftsmanship and traditional Japanese artistry, Lexus has commissioned the world’s first tattooed car. This strictly one-of-a-kind interpretation of the UX compact SUV has been designed and created by leading London tattoo artist Claudia De Sabe.

Using a pure white car as her “canvas” and a Dremel drill tool in place of a fine tattooing needle, Claudia produced a sweeping design featuring koi carp along the entire length of the vehicle. The koi is a motif familiar from traditional Japanese art, representing qualities of good fortune and perseverance.
The Artistic Process
Creating this tattooed car was no small feat. Claudia De Sabe, known for her intricate and detailed tattoo work, had to adapt her skills to a much larger and unconventional canvas. The process began with the selection of a pure white Lexus UX, chosen for its sleek lines and modern design, which provided the perfect backdrop for the artwork.
Instead of traditional tattoo needles, Claudia used a Dremel drill tool to etch the design into the car’s paintwork. This required a steady hand and a great deal of precision, as any mistakes would be difficult to correct. The design features a koi carp, a symbol deeply rooted in Japanese culture, known for its beauty and its representation of perseverance and good fortune. The koi carp design flows gracefully along the car’s body, creating a sense of movement and life.
Symbolism and Cultural Significance
The choice of the koi carp is particularly significant. In Japanese culture, the koi carp is more than just a fish; it is a symbol of strength, courage, and determination. According to legend, a koi carp that swims upstream and successfully climbs the waterfalls of the Yellow River will transform into a dragon. This story of transformation and triumph over adversity is a powerful metaphor, making the koi an ideal subject for this groundbreaking project.
The use of traditional Japanese motifs on a modern vehicle like the Lexus UX creates a fascinating juxtaposition. It bridges the gap between ancient art forms and contemporary design, highlighting the timeless nature of these cultural symbols. This project not only showcases the artistic talents of Claudia De Sabe but also pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Japan, a country that has greatly influenced Lexus’s design philosophy.
You can find out more information about this one-of-a-kind tattooed Lexus SUV over at Lexus at the link below.
Source Lexus
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