Is it normal for a tattoo artist to adopt a hyper‑abstract style and still find clients?

I've been watching this local artist develop a signature technique that feels more like a collage of textures than traditional line work. The lines are deliberately jagged, the shading is almost glitchy, and the color palette leans into saturated primaries. I’m curious if that’s a viable path or if people feel it’s too experimental for the mainstream market.

I’ve tried a few pieces myself, and the response is mixed: some patrons love the novelty, others say it’s too aggressive. Is this a common hurdle for artists breaking from conventional styles? Are there success stories of artists who made a living on the fringe? I’d like to hear from anyone who’s walked this line or seen it worked.

Also, is there an expectation that a tattoo should still look like a single cohesive story, even if the style is unconventional? Or can the avant‑garde approach stand on its own?

I’m just looking for honest feedback on whether this feels like a sustainable artistic direction.