We’re thrilled to present an exclusive interview with Natasha, renowned globally as “Animal Tattooer,” in our November issue! Known for her breathtaking artistry and unique style, Natasha shares her journey, insights into her creative process, and the passion that drives her work. Discover the world through her eyes and get inspired by her vision, techniques, and dedication!
Can you please start by telling us something about yourself and your beginnings?
Hello! I’mNatasha ANIMAL, a tattoo artist based Düsseldorf, Germany, specializing in detailed, animal-themed tattoos that combine realism with expressive elements. My artistic journey began back in Russia, where I’m originally from, when I was 17, during my time at a theatre and art college. Coming from a creative family. my father is a movie director and my mother a costume designer. Art was always present in my life. Initially, I studied stage makeup, but it was during college that I developed a passion for tattooing. I started practicing at home, learning through online resources and with support from friends. Over time, I refined my skills and turned my fascination with animals into a unique style that has become central to my work. I moved to Germany two years ago, and this transition has influenced and enriched my artistic journey even further.
What was the turning point in your career that helped you become a top tattoo artist? Was it a tattoo technique, equipment, or a particular design approach?
The turning point in my career was when I embraced my love for animal-themed tattoos and made it the focus of my work. While I had experimented with various styles early on, specializing in animal realism allowed me to create a unique niche. My clients often requested animal tattoos, and this led me to develop a style that blends intricate details with a more artistic, expressive approach. A significant boost to my career also came from partnerships with major brands like World Famous Ink and Kwadron. Their sponsorships provided me with the resources and exposure to participate in top international conventions, helping me grow as an artist.
You’ve mentioned that music has always been a source of inspiration for you and you often work while wearing headphones. What’s your favorite music style or band to listen to while tattooing and designing?
Music plays an integral role in my creative process. I love how it influences the mood and direction of my designs. I don’t have one favorite genre or band, but I tend to gravitate toward music that resonates emotionally with me at that moment. My main genres are rock, Nu-Metal and heavy music, which I often combine with classical music for a unique creative balance. The intensity of hardcore and the emotional depth of classical music create a dynamic atmosphere that inspires the energy and emotion I channel into my tattoos. It’s often the case that a specific song or album influences an entire design, particularly when I’m working on larger, more complex pieces.
Your tattoos evoke strong emotions, even when they feature animals. For instance, your winning piece at the Gods of Ink Tattoo Convention carried a powerful message. Is that emotional depth something you aim for, or does it emerge naturally as you work?
The emotional depth in my tattoos is something I strive for, but it also emerges naturally during the process. With animals, it can be challenging to convey human emotions like sadness or joy, but I always aim to capture the spirit and essence of the animal. In the winning piece from Gods of Ink, the design carried a powerful message about strength and resilience, which connected deeply with both the audience and the judges. I can’t take full credit for the concept of that particular piece, however I do enjoy working with clients who give me more creative freedom, as it allows me to incorporate meaningful stories into the artwork, not just portraits. This freedom gives me the space to include deeper messages and narratives, which I believe makes the tattoos even more impactful.
You’ve won numerous awards, attended conventions, and earned international respect and recognition all well deserved. Yet you remain deeply grateful for the support of your clients and fellow artists. Is it challenging to stay true to yourself in such a competitive environment?
It can definitely be challenging to stay true to yourself in a competitive industry, especially as trends and client expectations change. However, I believe that the key to longevity and success in tattooing is maintaining your artistic integrity. I‘m incredibly grateful for the support of my clients and fellow artists, and their encouragement reminds me to stay focused on what makes my art unique. There‘s always pressure to keep up with the latest trends or to adapt to what’s popular, but I’ve found that staying true to my vision while continuing to evolve is what keeps me motivated and fulfilled.
Speaking of competition, you‘ve collaborated with many great artists. How do you feel about collaboration and what does it bring to you as an artist?
Collaboration is one of the most enriching experiences for me as an artist. It allows you to step outside your usual approach and bring together different perspectives and techniques. Collaborating with artists like Walter Montero has been incredibly inspiring because we can combine our strengths to create something that’s more than the sum of its parts. It also pushes me to grow and try new things, learning from others in the process. Tattooing can sometimes feel like a solitary practice, but collaborating reminds me that it‘s also a community-driven art form.
As a jury member at tattoo conventions, what aspects of a tattoo do you consider most when determining a winning design?
When judging tattoos at conventions, I look for a combination of technical skill, creativity, and how well the tattoo complements the body. Linework, shading, and color saturation are essential, but I also consider the overall composition and how original the design is. A winning tattoo needs to stand out not just for its precision but also for its artistic impact. The connection between the tattoo and the client’s body is crucial. It should feel like the tattoo belongs there, both in terms of design and placement.
Is there a tattoo style you’d like to explore more in the future?
In the future, I’d love to explore human portrait tattoos more deeply. While I love working with animals, human portraits allow for a broader range of emotional expression. I’ve recently been drawn to creating more melancholic, expressive pieces with human subjects, where I can really dive into the emotions conveyed by the face and body language. Additionally, I want to experiment more with greywash techniques and combine black-and-gray elements with both graphic and realistic styles. This fusion would allow me to push the boundaries of my work, blending different artistic elements to create something truly unique.
After ten years of tattooing and all your success, what’s your next goal or dream you’d like to accomplish?
After ten years, my next goal is to continue pushing the boundaries of my art, both in tattooing and painting. I also want to expand my educational offerings, developing more online and offline courses for tattoo artists. Taking a step back from conventions this year has given me the chance to recharge, and I’m excited to return in 2025 with renewed energy. Ultimately, I want to create work that not only resonates with people but also inspires them. Art is a lifelong journey, and I’m looking forward to what the future holds.
What advice would you give to a tattoo artist who aspires to become a world-class artist?
My advice would be to stay dedicated to your craft, never stop learning, and always be true to your artistic vision. Tattooing is not just about technical skills. It‘s about expressing yourself and creating meaningful work for your clients. It’s important to be patient, as success doesn‘t happen overnight, and to constantly seek out new knowledge and experiences. Attending conventions, networking with other artists, and staying open to feedback can provide invaluable growth opportunities.
- What are your thoughts on using AI in tattoo design? Do you still prefer traditional methods like working in design programs, or do you think AI has much to offer the tattoo world?
- AI is an exciting tool that has potential in the world of tattooing, but for me, traditional methods are still the core of my creative process. I enjoy using design programs like Procreate because they allow me to have full control over every aspect of the design. While AI can help generate ideas or streamline certain parts of the design process, I believe that tattooing is a deeply personal and human art form. The connection between the artist and the client, as well as the hand-crafted nature of each design, is what makes tattooing unique. AI can complement this process, but it’s important to maintain the authenticity and creativity that come from human experience.
