Things and Ink Archives

April 25, 2025April 25, 2025

“I created a community chat with my clients because these women all shared a journey with me and now it makes me smile that they’ve become friends,” interview with tattoo artist Swasthik Iyengar

The work of tattoo artist Swasthik Iyengar is a mix of Indian tribal and Hindu, but with a contemporary edge, that helps connect people to their roots. And we’re totally obsessed. Her Instagram feed – gunga_ma – is filled with bold and beautiful designs that clearly empower their wearers, so much so that she’s created a community of women who wear her tattoos.

She’s been immersed in the tattooing industry from her early twenties, starting out as a counter girl in a shop in Australia in 2015, she did her first tattoo at the end of 2017, and has been tattooing for nine years now. But tattooing is in her blood – her grandmother was a traditional handpoke tattooer in India.

She’s currently in the US, but we hope that she comes over to the UK soon, so we can join her community of badass women by adding a piece of her work to our own collections… We couldn’t wait to hear more about her journey. Settle in, it’s absolutely fascinating!

When did you first fall in love with tattoos? Was there a poignant moment from your past? Tell us about it, take us there…

I fell in love with tattoos from the moment I got tattooed when I was 20 in London. It was just so magical. Not only did I love my tattoos, but I fell in love with the experience and the energy and vibrant colours in the tattoo shops. For most of my teen life, I found it very hard to fit in, so when I moved to London and got my first tattoo at the world famous Into You [sadly now closed] owned by Alex Binnie, I just knew my journey of tattooing was not going to stop.

Swasthik’s first tattoos on the inside of her forearms seen here while holding her friend’s hand

I remember seeing Hindu influenced imagery in the shop and I felt so at home, I felt a belonging. To see that there was a community of people out there that cherished Hindu imagery and gods made me feel comfortable in my skin – literally as my first ever tattoos were my family gods: Lord Narasimha and Lakshmi.

What was your childhood like, were you always artistic? Tell us about your family connection to tattooing…

I was born and raised in India till I was 10 years old. I came from a deep spiritual background. India is filled with rich art and colours – because of the people, the sounds, the temples and houses, people’s prayer rooms. I lived a simple life there with my parents and extended family. I remember going to sacred sites and temples on big road trips with family and cousins, playing with cows, playing on the streets, going into nature.

And my grandmother did stick-and-poke tattoos in Chennai in India. While this was not her sole job, she did kolam tattoos for reasons of healing as these specific tattoos have medicinal healing connotations based on deeply rooted traditions. To put into context, I can explain a little about the tattoos she did.

Kolam tattoos are extremely sacred. It is important to define first what is kolam. Kolam patterns are planetary based geometric/mathematical line drawings physically drawn on the ground (earth mother) with rice flour or grounded natural seeds. Each kolam is formulated around a matrix of dots, whereby folklore mandates that all lines must be connected to symbolically prevent evil spirits from entering inside the land/village, hut/home, territory or temple where the kolam pattern exists.

Why did South Indian people like your grandmother historically tattoo kolam patterns on the skin?

Kolam patterns were tattooed (by sacred stick-and-poke instruments called Mungurah) on people’s skin by female tattooers and or medicine healers to protect family members from evil spirits and disease from entering the body. Evil spirits included the lost souls of those that died and could not find karmic closure and diseases included cancers and many others that caused pain and stress on the body.

The reason that only ladies and medicine healers were allowed to tattoo this is because it was said that since ladies were mothers, they had the magic touch of empathy and love that surpassed the control of any evil spirit. Medicine healers were trusted to tattoo kolam patterns as their hands held the power to cure illness. The stick-and-poke instruments were made of many different materials but the special ones used in ritual were made of brass.

Your work has Indian tribal tattoo culture and Hindu imagery infused in it, but with a contemporary edge. How did your style evolve to become what it is today? Is it important to embrace both past and present?

Not only as a student but as a person who holds space and has an extreme amount of respect for the craft, it is very important to study and acknowledge the tattooers and the tattoo practice in the past. These people have paved the way for tattooers today. Since I have a strong connection to my motherland – India, even before I was tattooing and I was painting – I was always inspired by references/motifs/imagery linked to Hindu culture and traditions/stories in different parts of India. For such a small country, India has an extensive and diverse array of painting, arts and crafts as well as tattoo practices.

Through studying these different styles and mediums of art and tattoos, and continuing to do so, I tried to and I am trying to take reference from such practices (use them as tools so to speak) and draw from my heart and mind. That is how I formed and continue to form my style of work. It is important for me to keep evolving, learning and tweaking my skills both in tattooing and art so that I continue to grow. I also like the challenges it brings, because it pushes me to think outside of the box and to always try my best. By embracing the past, I hope to connect my clients to their roots, to our ancestors, to the spirit that forms us and connects us to our people, our land.

Her customers have become a community. This photo was taken on the day that her customer Gloria got tattooed, with Humairaa (one month healed) and Pavi (a few years healed)

Your Instagram feed is filled with the most beautiful photos of women with bold designs that sprawl across their bodies, do you find the process of tattooing someone empowering – for them and for you? Do you notice people’s attitudes towards their own bodies change during and after the process?

Thank you so much for your kind words. Honestly the best part of tattooing is hearing my clients’ stories and making them smile through body transformation. In most of the situations, both my client and I have cried with happiness after the execution of the tattoo. In beautiful ways the universe has given us signs when the tattoo is finished, which makes us feels their ancestors (Pattis – grandmothers) were in a sense there with us. Tattooing is painful, especially in those sacred parts of the body, so it’s so empowering to see my client’s strength to endure, to get through it.

I sometimes forget when I tattoo every day, and I remember when I get tattooed, and it really humbles me because it is a journey and with such body transformation comes pain. I do see attitudes change after. In fact, I receive the most beautiful emails months and years after from my clients/friends of how strong they feel in their skin. I decided to create a community chat with my clients because these women all shared a journey with me and now it makes me smile that they have become friends and catch up from time to time and collaborate on projects.

How do you like to work with your customers? Do you consider the tattoo to be a collaboration? What kind of ideas do customers bring to you and how do you turn those ideas into tattoos?

It depends on whether the email I get is someone wanting a flash that I have posted or if someone is wanting a tribal chest/sleeve/back etc. If it is a flash piece, then it is very easy to communicate the booking via email as people see the finished product/painting and know somewhat what they will get. When the time comes, it’s very nice to then meet the client in person and connect because I am very grateful that they want a piece of my work.

If it is the latter, I usually bring people in for consults because it is important to connect in person and feel a sense of comfort. By interacting in person, I can understand what a person wants and I’m able to spend time asking questions as well as taking tracings of the body in order to commence drawing the design for the tattoo.

I always have the option for consults, whether small or big or someone who wants to get their first tattoo – these are permanent markings and big decisions, so I want clients to feel happy and safe if they wish to get tattooed by me. Also, this allows for the tattoo concept to be a collaboration.

What’s your studio like? Is the environment you tattoo in important to the process?

I work at the wonderful Good Luck NYC in Brooklyn. It is a great creative space whereby everyone there does amazing work – which inspires me. Everyone there is always willing to help when it comes to talking about art or tattoo techniques. There is a lot of sun that comes through the shop and it has a lovely energy so I feel very lucky to be a part of their team.

For sure, the environment is important because tattooing is very tricky. For example, everyone’s skin is different, sometimes stencilling the tattoo can be challenging, so when I am in a peaceful, friendly and supportive environment, I can calm down and do the tattoo the best I can. I always want to try my best and to make my clients smile.

Are you doing any guest spots this year? And how do we book in?

Right now, for the summer, I plan to stay in New York. As I’ve just moved to the States –almost a year ago. For me, it is important to remain focused, paint and build a local clientele. However, I will do guest spots through the USA after the summer. I have not set in stone any particular places but this is something I’m exploring. The best way to book in with me is by emailing me. My body of work is on my Instagram page – gunga_ma – and my bio on my Instagram page has my email enclosed. This way people can see the tattoos I’ve done and the new designs that are available. My email is: swasthikiyengartattoos@gmail.com

Do you have any thoughts about the industry as a whole? Its past and its future?

Honestly, I don’t feel I’ve been tattooing long enough to say because I am still very much a student. I know that the tattooers I’ve met in my journey here and the people I admire have been so kind in sharing their knowledge of tattoo applications and executions, which has been so amazing. So I am very grateful to meet these tattooers and be able to learn from them.

I also think now, especially with social media, it is so cool to see so many different styles of tattoos/art that inspires and motivates me. It is awesome now we have access to more things within the tattoo industry, such as different types of machines etc.

What path are you on next and where would you like the style of your work to go?

I would like to move towards doing larger bodysuits/larger projects such as sleeves within my tribal Indian work – fingers crossed.

I just really want to thank you for giving me this opportunity to be able to talk a little bit about my culture and tattooing within my culture to your readers on your platform because I think what you both do is truly great. I also want to thank everyone that reads this interview, and my emails are always open if you want to get tattooed here in New York. I look forward to hearing your stories and what brought you to want to get tattooed. Thank you again.

We can’t wait for the next step in your journey. Follow: gunga_ma

March 17, 2025March 17, 2025

“Every city has taught us something distinct, enriching our own style and deepening our appreciation for the art form,” travelling tattooists, Alex and Diana

After meeting in Poland and travelling Europe together, tattoo artists Diana Diaz (@ttoo_diaz) and Alex But (@but_flash) are now on a unique journey to tattoo in every state across the USA. Tattooing in new cities brings new experiences, incredible clients and insights into the tattoo culture across different regions – we chatted to the duo to learn more about the journey so far, settle in for the ride…

You’re a duo of traveling tattoo artists, working together to explore the USA one guest spot at a time. How did you both meet? What brought you together? Where are you from?

It was a bit of a coincidence. I was working in a studio in Poland, and Alex came to do a guest spot. We hit it off straight away. Both of us were into pushing our tattoo skills and had a shared passion for exploring new cities and cultures. I’m originally from Ukraine, as is Alex, so we connected over our shared background as well. It felt like the perfect partnership, and we’ve been travelling together ever since.

How long have you been travelling for and where have you been so far?

We’ve been on the road for five years now, we started working in different countries across Europe. Then our trips took us through Poland, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, Spain and Denmark. In 2024, we ventured into the USA to continue our tattoo adventure. Last year we did guest spots in 14 states and even visited Alaska for a guest spot.

What’s been your most memorable place / guest spot so far?

One of our most memorable guest spots was in Anchorage, Alaska. It was a special place for us mainly because the tattoo community there feels like a family and we’re grateful to every person we met there. The vibe of the city was incredible, and we met so many inspiring native artists and customers. The energy in that city was unmatched, we saw some incredible wildlife and it was one of the first times we really felt like we were part of a creative community.

What have you learnt about different tattoo cultures in each country / city you’ve visited? Has anything surprised you?

Throughout our travels, we’ve discovered that every place brings its own unique flavour to tattoo culture. In some cities, the art is deeply rooted in local traditions and history, while in others, it’s a bold expression of modern creativity and personal identity.

One of the biggest surprises was finding incredibly tight-knit communities in unexpected locations. For example, in a small town in Alaska, the tattoo scene felt more like a close family than just a professional network. Every new city has taught us something distinct, enriching our own style and deepening our appreciation for the art form.

Has your own work changed or evolved along your journey?

Absolutely. As we’ve travelled and worked in different places, our style has evolved. We’ve learned new techniques, picked up insights from various artists, and drawn inspiration from the places we’ve visited. Exposure to such a diverse range of styles and people has pushed us to think outside the box and develop a more multi-faceted approach to tattooing. Now, we’re open to collaborations with different companies and are striving to transform tattoo designs into true art.

What challenges have there been along the way, and how have you overcome them?

There have been many challenges, different languages, cultural differences, and sometimes even just finding the right place to stay. We had to be resourceful, adapt quickly, and stay connected with each other to overcome those tough times. But through it all, we’ve learned to embrace uncertainty and stay flexible, we believe that this is the most important thing.

What’s it like living out of a suitcase? What kind of places do you stay in?

Living out of a suitcase is definitely a lifestyle choice! We stay in a mix of places — some are small Airbnb apartments, sometimes with friends, and other times in more unusual spots like RV campers or trailers when we’re on the move. It’s always a bit chaotic but exciting, and it keeps us on our toes. We’ve learned to pack light and adapt to whatever situation comes our way.

Where’s next on this journey?

Our journey is far from over! We’re currently working on completing our goal of completing 90 guest spots in every state in the US. Next, we’ll continue making our way across the country, with plans to visit new cities, collaborate with more artists, and keep growing both as tattoo artists and individuals. We’re excited to see where this adventure takes us!

So are we! Make sure to follow Diana (@ttoo_diaz) and Alex (@but_flash) on their incredible adventure.

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.

March 10, 2025March 10, 2025

“I blend my clients’ stories with my own artistic vision to create unique designs that resonate with them,” tattoo artist Lass

Tattoo artist Lass, @lasstattoo, tattoos her ornamental style from Allskins studio in Hamburg, Germany, which looks like a high-end spa. She’s been tattooing for more than eight years and specialises in botanical and ornamental tattoos. Collectors often come to her with themes related to significant moments in their life and she adores diving deep into their inspirations to translate feelings into beautiful floral designs…

What made you fall in love with tattooing?

Tattooing has always felt like a calling, but I vividly remember the moment it truly captured my heart. Growing up in Kazakhstan, I was fascinated by the stories that tattoos told – each one a unique expression of identity and culture. I was drawn to a local artist’s studio where I saw people getting tattooed. The way they transformed their skin into a canvas, expressing their journeys and emotions, left a lasting impression on me. That moment ignited a spark – and I knew I wanted to be part of that world.

You create “tattoos that blossom with personality” in a floral and ornamental style. How did you develop this? Explain to us how this works when you tattoo someone.

My floral and ornamental style developed from my love for nature and its beauty. I believe that flowers symbolise growth and femininity, and I wanted to incorporate that into my work.

When I tattoo someone, I take the time to understand their personality and what they want to convey. I blend their stories with my artistic vision, creating unique designs that resonate with them. Each tattoo is a collaboration, and I strive to ensure that it feels like an extension of their personality.

Do you create mostly unique pieces for each customer? How do you like to work with collectors on tattoos? What sort of ideas do people usually come to you with?

Absolutely! I pride myself on creating unique pieces tailored to each client. When working with collectors, I love to brainstorm ideas together.

People often come to me with themes related to their life experiences, personal growth, or significant moments. I enjoy diving deep into their inspirations and translating those into beautiful floral designs that hold meaning and significance.

Do you have any favourite tattoos you’ve done? Tell us about them and why you love them.

One of my favourite tattoos is a large floral piece I did for a client who wanted to commemorate her grandmother. It incorporated her grandmother’s favourite flowers, each with its own meaning. Seeing the joy and connection it brought her made the experience incredibly rewarding.

I love tattoos that tell a story and evoke emotion, and this piece perfectly captured that essence.

Your studio Allskins looks absolutely beautiful – elegant and modern, a new breed of studio – what inspired the decor? Why is how the studio looks so important? Were you thinking about how your customers will feel while they are getting tattooed? It looks like a spa in the photos…

Thank you! The decor of Allskins was inspired by my desire to create a serene and inviting space. I wanted it to feel like a sanctuary where clients can relax and be themselves. The calming colours and modern design elements were chosen with the intention of making the tattooing experience enjoyable and comfortable.

I believe that the atmosphere plays a significant role in how clients feel, and I want them to leave not just with a tattoo, but with a memorable experience.

Do you think there are misconceptions and myths around tattooing? Is this something you think about and are trying to combat in your work and on social media?

Yes, definitely. There are many misconceptions about tattooing, such as the idea that it’s only for rebellious individuals or that it lacks artistry. I use my platform to showcase the beauty and craftsmanship behind tattooing.

Through sharing my work and the stories of my clients, I aim to break down these stereotypes and show that tattoos can be a beautiful form of self-expression for anyone.

What are your feelings about the industry as a whole?

I feel that the tattoo industry is evolving and becoming more inclusive and diverse. There’s a growing appreciation for artistry, and more artists are exploring unique styles. However, there are still challenges, such as the need for better representation and respect for the craft.

I believe we can continue to push for positive change and elevate the art form.

Do you ever work conventions and travel for guest spots? How do we book in?

Yes, I love attending conventions and collaborating with other artists! It’s a great way to connect with the community and share ideas. For bookings, I usually announce my guest spots appearances on my social media platforms, where clients can find information on how to reserve a spot. I also accept inquiries through my website www.lasstattoo.com for those interested in getting their projects done by me.

What are your hopes for your future in tattooing?

My hopes for the future include continuing to grow as an artist and expanding my reach. I want to further develop my style and collaborate with other talented artists,. I also run workshops, to help tattooists refine technique, gain confidence and support them in their journey as an artist. I hope to make them more accessible by doing them online, too, to inspire the next generation of tattoo artists.

Ultimately, I aspire to create a lasting impact in the industry while helping my clients feel empowered and beautiful through their tattoos. Watch a film about the workshops here.

Follow @lasstattoo for more beautiful ornamental, botanical tattoos.

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.

February 21, 2025March 7, 2025

“Tattoos can help you embrace your body rather than hide from it” – in conversation with body positivity influencer Sara Puhto aka @saggysara

Sara Puhto, known as @saggysara on Instagram, is a body positivity influencer who shares real, raw and refreshingly honest content. Social media bombards us with unrealistic beauty standards, making us question ourselves and our bodies – but Sara is on a mission to change that, one post at a time.

Beyond her empowering message, Sara also proudly shows off her bold and beautiful tattoos. It’s common to hear people say they’ll wait to get a tattoo until they look a certain way – a mindset that, unfortunately, persists. But Sara challenges this idea, reminding us that all bodies are worthy of tattoos and that life is too short to put off getting that tattoo!

We sat down with Sara to talk about her content, her tattoos and how the tattoo community has evolved in recent years.

What inspired you to start creating body positivity content?

I used to be a fitness content creator back in 2016 and realised that I was posing, flexing and sucking in all my photos. I was sharing my workouts and “what I eat in a day” videos and realised that I was comparing myself to other content creators who were also posting similar content. I’d compare my body to theirs and assume that they looked flexed all the time, even when they were relaxing their bodies. That’s when I decided to share my relaxed body next to my posed, flexed and sucked in body to show the “reality” behind my Instagram posts. It felt really rewarding and helpful to not only me, but also to my audience – I haven’t stopped since.

I also had an eating disorder and a problematic disordered relationship with working out and started my journey to healing. I now have a healthy relationship with food and working out and have found a balance that is sustainable for me. Posting my body acceptance and body-neutral content was almost like having a public diary of my healing process and sharing my inner thoughts and feelings while recovering publicly. This, I don’t regret one bit, as it’s so beautiful to know that others have healed and started their healing journeys through the help of my content, which means the world to me.

Can you tell us about some of your favourite tattoos and their significance to you?

The majority of my tattoos are because “they looked nice and I wanted it”. But I have my cat tattooed on me, he passed away two years ago and he meant so much to me, I’m still not fully over him passing so it’s comforting to have the tattoo of him to remind me that he’s never really gone. I’m quite spiritual and believe that our passed loved ones stay with us.

I have the words “stay present” and “alive” on my palms, to remind me to be in the moment and to make the most of being alive. I got those tattoos at a really low, rock-bottom moment of my life when I was struggling with depression and trying to gain the courage to leave an abusive relationship. Once I left the abusive relationship and started my healing journey, having those moments of really fixating and looking at my palms helped me refocus my perception of life – always a great reminder!

How have tattoos influenced your body confidence?

I used to be really insecure about my torso. I have a wider torso because I’ve undergone scoliosis surgery. It took me such a long time to feel confident to get my stomach tattooed because I was worried it would draw attention to my wide torso. But ever since I started getting it tattooed, I feel so much more confident in my relaxed body!

I also just love looking at myself in the mirror now. I’ve wanted to be heavily tattooed ever since I was a young teenager, so I know little me would be obsessed with all the body art which makes me feel happy and confident!

Do you think tattoos can serve as a tool for improving self-esteem? How so?

Absolutely! Tattoos can be a powerful way to reclaim your body and express yourself. For many people getting a tattoo can help them embrace parts of themselves they once felt insecure about. It’s like turning your body into a canvas that reflects who you are, and that can be empowering.

Why do you think people feel they need to have a certain body type to get tattoos?

A lot of it comes from outdated beauty standards and the way tattooed bodies are/were portrayed in media. For a long time, most tattoo ads and magazines featured thin, toned bodies, making it seem like tattoos “belong” on a certain type of person. That combined with societal pressure to look a certain way, can make people feel like they need the “perfect” body before getting tattooed.

Do you feel there’s enough representation of diverse body types in the tattoo community?

There’s progress, but there’s still room for improvement. More artists are showcasing tattooed bodies of different sizes, shapes and skin tones, which is great to see. I think social media has helped a lot in normalising tattoos on all kinds of bodies, but mainstream representation, especially in magazines, ads and TV still tends to favour a certain “ideal” look. The reality is, tattoos are for everybody who wants them. Thankfully more inclusive artists and platforms are pushing for diversity, and I think we’re heading in the right direction.

Do you think the tattoo industry is becoming more inclusive? What changes would you like to see?

I’m not a tattoo artist but it’s lovely to see tattoo artists posting more flash and concept pieces on larger bodies on Instagram. I also think the kindness of tattoo artists regarding self-harm scars, stretch marks and other body aspects that might cause someone insecurities is being handled with a lot more compassion and kindness.

From my experience, whenever an artist has seen my old self-harm scars, they have approached it in a way that always makes me feel comfortable, especially when it comes to asking for consent when posting photos of tattoos that have been done on my old self-harm scars.

I’d like to see a wider acceptance of different tattoo styles beyond what’s traditionally considered “mainstream,” encouraging artists to explore and express their own unique visions without judgement. I feel like a lot of artists are doing this and it’s amazing to see, I just wish the public on social media comment sections weren’t so rude and judgemental.

Have you noticed any changes in how tattoo culture intersects with body positivity in recent years?

More people are getting tattoos not just for aesthetics but as a way to reclaim their bodies and tell their personal stories. One of the biggest changes is how scars, stretch marks and other “imperfections” are being embraced in tattoo culture. Instead of hiding them, many people are choosing to highlight these features with tattoos. For example with mastectomies, surgeries, or stretch marks, they’ve used tattoos as a way to celebrate their journeys rather than conceal them

Also, more artists are specialising in tattooing on all body types and skin tones, which wasn’t always the case. It’s really refreshing to see a broader representation of people in tattoo media and marketing.

The body positivity movement has helped shift the mindset from covering up to celebrating. It’s no longer about “fixing” anything, it’s more about embracing who you are, exactly as you are, and using tattoos as a form of self expression.

Do you think there’s a difference between how men and women are perceived when they’re heavily tattooed?

Yes, for sure. Heavily tattooed women tend to be more sexualised than men. Women will often get asked inappropriate questions, for example, “How far does that tattoo go?” or “Are your breasts/nipples/pubic bone tattooed?”. Unnecessary sexual questions asked by strangers (mostly men) that you wouldn’t ask someone normally, especially a stranger.

Due to older societal gender norms women are judged more heavily for being heavily tattooed. For example, getting comments like, “But you were so pretty before!” or questions about how their tattoos will look when they’re older, things that rarely get said to men.

Have you faced any challenges or criticism as a heavily tattooed woman? How do you handle negativity or trolls on your social media platforms?

I never really get trolls but if I do, I usually just ignore them because people have different opinions. Sometimes I’ll reply with a cheeky comment if they’re rude, but I rarely do that anymore because their opinions of my tattoos don’t matter to me because I love my tattoos.

How do you want people to feel when they see your content?

I want people to feel seen. Social media has made us compare ourselves to every single person we see online because we only see the highlights of people’s lives on social media. I want to remind them that it’s okay to be human and have flaws and remind them that life isn’t meant to be curated or perfect.

What advice would you give to someone hesitant to get their first tattoo due to body insecurities?

Every time I’ve gotten a tattoo on a body part that I was insecure about previously, it’s helped me regain confidence. I’d say you’re not alone, so many people feel this way before getting their first tattoo. But one of the beautiful things about tattoos is that they can help you embrace your body rather than hide from it.

If you’re feeling hesitant, take your time. Many tattoo artists today are incredibly supportive and understand how personal this process can be. A good artist will make you feel comfortable.

Also, try to reframe the way you think about your body. Instead of seeing a tattoo as a way to “fix” something, see it as a way to celebrate yourself. The most important thing is that the tattoo makes you happy.

Stay Up to Date with Things&Ink

Things&Ink is an online tattoo magazine celebrating female tattoo culture, highlighting some of the most talented women 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.

February 15, 2025February 15, 2025

“Creating a backpiece is an extensive and deeply personal journey for both the client and myself,” interview with tattoo artist Francesco Ferrara

Known for his bold and expansive backpieces, we sat down to hear 29-year-old Francesco Ferrara’s story. Italian Francesco currently lives in California in the USA and is a resident artist at Gold Rush Tattoo (@Goldrushtattoo) in Costa Mesa.

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to the readers of Things & Ink and express my gratitude for this wonderful opportunity.

My journey into the world of tattooing began at a very young age. Before embarking on my career as a tattoo artist, I was first a client. At the age of 15, I received my first tattoo — a Japanese sleeve on my left arm. At the time, I had little knowledge about tattoos, but I was instantly captivated by the art form.

By the age of 16, I attempted my first tattoo on a friend in my garage using a machine that another friend had purchased. In those early years, I did not view tattooing with the same perspective I have today. However, I am deeply grateful to my younger self for taking that first step, as tattooing ultimately gave my life purpose and direction.

I also remain deeply grateful to the individuals who supported me at the start of my career— those who entrusted me with their skin when I was just 16. Many of them are still close friends, while others have naturally drifted from my life over time.

When I first entered the tattoo industry, I was young and unfamiliar with both the craft and the inner workings of a tattoo studio. My apprenticeship lasted over a year, during which my primary focus was observing, absorbing and understanding the daily operations of a professional studio. Throughout this time, I refrained from tattooing, aside from a few experimental pieces on close friends, for which I never accepted payment.

I firmly believe that a strong apprenticeship is the foundation of a skilled tattoo artist. With over a decade of experience, I can quickly discern whether an artist has undergone a proper apprenticeship or is self-taught – the difference is substantial and unmistakable.

One of the most memorable moments of my career was my first guest spot in London at Black Garden Tattoo. At just 21 years old, I didn’t speak a word of English, but I was eager to tattoo as many people as possible. That experience profoundly reinforced my passion for tattooing and the incredible opportunities it has provided for my personal and professional growth.

Over the years, I’ve refined my style through exposure to diverse artistic influences and collaborations with some of the most esteemed tattoo artists in the industry. Working in various locations has allowed me to learn, adapt and integrate different techniques into my craft. I like to believe that I’ve taken inspiration from each artist I have encountered and made it my own.

My tattooing style is a fusion of traditional European and American influences. I have always specialised in traditional tattooing, though my approach has evolved significantly over the years. While in Europe, I favoured thinner lines and a more muted, autumnal colour palette.

Upon moving to the US, I was heavily influenced by the American traditional scene, adopting bold lines, vibrant colours and solid shading techniques.

Personally, I have exclusively Traditional and Japanese tattoos on my body. The majority of my clientele seek large-scale projects such as backpieces, front pieces, and sleeves. Each large-scale design is custom-created in collaboration with the client, incorporating their input to ensure a meaningful and personalised outcome.

Additionally, I frequently work with flash pieces from my collection, as many clients are drawn to my artistic style rather than a specific design. However, I am always happy to create bespoke pieces upon request.

Creating a backpiece is an extensive and deeply personal journey for both the client and myself. The process typically spans approximately five sessions, each dedicated to a different stage: outlining, shading, and colouring.

When clients approach me to begin their backpiece, I always seek their input on the design. Understanding their vision and aspirations allows me to incorporate their ideas while infusing my own artistic perspective, ultimately crafting a piece that surpasses their expectations.

Many of my clients gravitate toward bold, vibrant designs, drawn to my signature style that features strong black contrasts and striking colour palettes. However, I also enjoy working in black and grey, adapting to each client’s preferences. To ensure optimal healing, I generally recommend spacing sessions three to four weeks apart.

For clients travelling from overseas, I accommodate their schedules by arranging consecutive sessions, reducing both travel expenses and logistical challenges. Each session typically lasts four to five hours, with short breaks to ensure the client’s comfort. Preparation is crucial, so I advise clients to get adequate rest, stay hydrated, and maintain a nutritious diet before their appointments.

The tattoo industry has changed significantly since I first started, but I am encouraged by the number of dedicated artists and passionate enthusiasts who continue to uphold the integrity of the craft. Many of my clients are between the ages of 18 and 25, and their appreciation for traditional and Japanese tattooing gives me hope for the future of the industry.

The tattoo scene in the US is remarkable, with an incredible community of talented artists. I deeply appreciate my clients here, as well as those in Europe, and I value the healthy competition that pushes us all to excel in our craft.

Unfortunately, there is also a great deal of misinformation surrounding tattooing, and some individuals portray a misleading or inauthentic version of the art form. I firmly believe that true artists who genuinely respect and preserve the craft will leave a lasting legacy, while those who exploit it without passion or dedication will ultimately fade away.

I consider myself fortunate to have clients who trust me and grant me creative freedom in my work. Looking ahead, one of my aspirations is to complete a full body suit on a client with either no tattoos or minimal existing work.

To the readers of Things & Ink, thank you for taking the time to read this article. I would like to offer a piece of advice to aspiring tattoo artists: Love tattooing wholeheartedly, as it will always give back to you — both the good and the bad. Work hard, as there are no shortcuts in this industry. If you lack genuine passion, then tattooing may not be the right path, as the world does not need more tattoo artists — it needs dedicated and skilled ones.

Francesco’s books are currently closed, reopening at the end of March for appointments between May and July 2026. Message him via DM on Instagram. He’s currently working on several projects that are still under wraps. His first book, Bruh Book, is out now. Make sure to follow Francesco Ferrara (@francesco__ferrara _) for more incredibly bold tattoos.

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