“My first tattoo was a swallow on my stomach – it feels like a time capsule from another version of myself,” tattoo artist, Ivan Baiun

Tattoo artist Ivan Baiun (aka BayunTattoos) has a distinctive two-colour style – he’s always been drawn to contrast, he tells us. And, as he has just announced his upcoming residency at Sashatattooing’s tattoo studios in Los Angeles and San Francisco, we decided to have a chat with him to discover more about his tattoo journey so far… 

What drew you to the world of tattooing? How did you learn?

I’ve been fascinated by tattooing since I was a kid. And around the age of 13, I became completely immersed in it. I started collecting books, studying the history of tattooing, analysing different styles and learning everything I could on my own.

I was obsessed with the craft long before I ever picked up a machine. Most of my early learning came from self-study and observation, fuelled by pure fascination. That foundation shaped the way I work today: independent, focused and deeply intentional.

What was the first tattoo you got and the first one you did on someone else?

The first was a swallow on my stomach. It’s nothing dramatic, but it feels like a time capsule from another version of myself.

The first one I ever did was on a close friend. Like most tattooers, I started on friends and family who were brave (or crazy) enough to let me practice on them. It wasn’t perfect, but it marked the beginning, and we still laugh about it to this day.

How did you refine your unique style? What drew you to black and red ink?

My style evolved naturally. I’ve always been drawn to contrast, both visually and emotionally. Red and black became my core palette because they carry weight, ritual and timeless tension. Over time, I focussed on how to make those two colours work together in a clean, structured and recognisable way.

What inspires your work?

A lot of my inspiration comes from visual research. I’ve been building a personal collection of Japanese books filled with prints, illustrations and traditional art that I constantly go back to. I also love exploring museums and Japanese gardens in every city I visit; it’s become a kind of ritual. These quiet moments studying composition, flow and texture feed directly into how I build and balance each tattoo.

Can you tell us more about your upcoming residencies at Sashatattooing’s California studios in Los Angeles and San Francisco? How did these come about?

I’m incredibly excited for this. The opportunity came through a mutual admiration. I’ve respected studio owner Sasha’s vision and global presence for years, and we connected over our shared love for bold, emotionally charged design. Their studios create space for artists with strong identities, and I’m looking forward to bringing my black-and-red universe to both coasts of California.

How can clients work with you? What’s the booking process?

I book primarily through Instagram and email. I like to keep the process personal; usually it starts with a short consultation where I understand the client’s intention and placement. From there, I design something completely unique, tailored to their body and vision.

Do you prefer flash or custom designs?

I only do custom work. For me, the connection with the client and the story behind the piece are essential. Every tattoo I create is made for that person and only that person.

Every tattoo I create is made for that person and only that person.

What’s been your favourite tattoo you’ve done?

Hard to choose, I love all of them,  but one of my recent favourite projects was a full set of leg sleeves – both legs completely covered. One features a dragon with flames, the other a tiger with chrysanthemums, all unified by a black background.

It was a technically demanding piece that took time, focus and full trust from the client. I loved the scale, the contrast and the way the two sides balance each other without mirroring. It felt like everything in my process came together in that project.

Do you have a moment you felt proud that you can share with us?

One of the things I value most is the chance to travel the world through tattooing. Being invited to take part in conventions  and studios across different countries has been an incredible way to connect with artists I admire and clients who follow my work globally.

It’s more than just showing up, each event feels like a reminder that this craft can build real bridges between people, cultures and ideas.

What do you like to do when you’re not tattooing?

I’m still creating: sketching, designing, playing with physical textures. I also love photographing small, unnoticed details in my environment, listening to music and hiking somewhere silent. Anything that resets my head and fills it with new visuals.

Follow @BayunTattoos to see all the incredible tattoos he creates during his new residency.

Stay up to date with Things&Ink

Things&Ink is an online tattoo magazine celebrating tattoo culture, highlighting some of the most talented creators in the industry, and providing a space for their voices to be heard. Stay connected with us on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates and features! You can view our other blog posts, here.