Adam Krueger

Adam Krueger is a multidisciplinary artist based in Brooklyn, originally from Illinois, known for his technical virtuosity, masterful use of trompe-l’oeil, and psychologically charged compositions. He has spent over 20 years deeply engaged in the New York City art world, with his work exhibited in some of the city’s leading blue-chip galleries. He holds a BFA from RISD and an MFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York.

With a deep understanding of both traditional and contemporary techniques in painting, illustration, and tattooing, Krueger creates meticulously detailed and visually striking work. With over 10 years of tattooing experience, his practice spans a wide range of styles—from American traditional to black and gray work—but he is known for his mastery of linework and his focus on microrealism and the timeless aesthetics of etching and engraving, including intaglio and woodcut-inspired forms.

Drawing inspiration from masters including Albrecht Dürer, Gustave Doré, Rembrandt, and Degas, Krueger’s tattoos begin as one-of-a-kind, pencil-on-paper designs, an approach that both preserves and evolves the tradition of draftsmanship.

Krueger is thrilled to return to RISD as the instructor of the Illustration department’s first-ever course on tattooing. In this groundbreaking class, he introduces students to tattooing as both a recognized fine art form and a viable professional path.