Lilian Raya • Colors That Speak Before Words

Lilian Raya is a Mexico City–based tattoo artist, illustrator, and designer known for her vibrant, illustrative style rooted in color and character. Drawing from influences like children’s book art, Mexican culture, and neo-traditional tattooing, she creates work that feels playful yet deeply intentional. Her tattoos reflect a strong sense of individuality, blending bold visuals with personal storytelling.

Her process is built on collaboration and trust, balancing client ideas with her distinct artistic vision. Constantly inspired by travel, culture, and fine art, Lilian approaches tattooing as both a creative practice and a way of life. She brings emotional awareness into her work, recognizing the personal experiences clients carry into each session.

Beyond her own craft, Lilian is passionate about mentorship, especially supporting emerging female tattoo artists in a traditionally male-dominated industry. With a growing international presence and ambitious goals, she continues to push her style forward while staying grounded in authenticity and respect. Her work stands as a celebration of identity, creativity, and cultural pride.

Let’s step into her world.

• How would you like to introduce yourself?

My name is Lilian Raya, and I’ve been a designer, illustrator, and tattoo artist for over 10 years now.

• Where can your customers find you?

I’m currently working at my own private tattoo studio, Lovetta Studio, in Mexico City (Mexico).

• How would you describe the tattoo scene in Mexico these days?

Mexico has so many great tattoo artists. One of the things I love most about the tattoo scene here is the variety of unique styles rooted in Mexican folklore, culture, and illustration. The colors and graphic approaches are very Latino-oriented, which makes them stand out globally.

• How would you define yourself in one word?

“Shiny”.

• Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?

More than tattoos, I’ve always been drawn to uniqueness in people and art. Tattoos are the perfect combination of both. From a very early age, I was attracted to the idea of being both an artist and a tattooed person. Watching tattoo shows growing up—and seeing Kat Von D as one of the first successful Latina tattoo artists, was incredibly inspiring.

• What does tattooing mean to you personally?

Tattooing is everything to me. It has given me the opportunity to travel, meet incredible people, and constantly learn from new environments. It also allows me to have a flexible lifestyle and the freedom to explore other passions. Most importantly, I truly love what I do—it never feels like work.

• At what point in your life did you decide to become a professional tattoo artist?

After doing my very first tattoo, I fell completely in love with it. Before that, I explored many forms of art—painting, photography, illustration—but tattooing felt different. It was one of those moments where I knew this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

• How did your family react when you started a career in tattooing?

My mother was my biggest supporter. She truly believed in me from the very beginning and always encouraged me, even before I fully believed in myself. I feel very lucky to have had that kind of support.

• Did you go through an apprenticeship? How was that experience?

I didn’t—I’m self-taught. I started in 2016, when there was already some information available online. I spent a lot of time watching other artists, asking questions, and even getting tattooed to learn techniques firsthand. While I do recommend apprenticeships, I was very committed to learning, and it worked out for me.

• What did your first tattoo look like?

It was a small blackwork bouquet of flowers that I drew myself and tattooed on a friend’s arm. I was very nervous, but it turned out pretty good for a first tattoo.

• As a Tattoo Artist what does your daily working routine look like?

I usually start my day at the gym—it’s my form of therapy and the best way to begin the day. After that, I handle personal tasks and head to the studio. I prepare my setup, finalize the stencil, meet my client, and go over last details before starting the tattoo. Sessions typically last around five hours.

• Do you usually do guest spots? If yes, what’s your experience in doing them?

I love doing guest spots and try to travel internationally as much as possible—sometimes two to four times a year. It’s refreshing to meet new artists, exchange ideas, and learn from different perspectives around the world.

• What is one surprising aspect of being a tattoo artist?

The emotional strength it requires. Clients often go through very personal and cathartic moments during sessions, so being able to support them while staying professional takes a lot of emotional intelligence.

• How do you determine the price of a tattoo?

It depends on the complexity, placement, level of detail, and how many sessions it will take to complete.

• What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2026?

Keeping up with social media and content creation. It’s no longer enough to just be a good artist—you also have to understand marketing and algorithms.

• What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?

Being able to do what I love every day. Creating art, traveling, and connecting with people around the world—it’s truly the best job for me.

• What’s your number one aftercare advice for clients?

Never touch your new tattoo without washing your hands thoroughly first.

• How would you define your current tattoo style, and how did you end up focusing on it?

I would describe my style as colorful and illustrative. It comes from my original goal of becoming a children’s book illustrator, mixed with neo-traditional tattoo elements. I combined everything I loved artistically and created something unique within the tattoo industry.

• Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.

I begin by understanding the client’s raw idea—style, color preferences, and meaning. Then I gather references and create a rough composition. Once approved, I refine the design into a final stencil. On the day of the appointment, we finalize details and begin tattooing.

• How do you balance client requests with your artistic vision?

It’s about trust and communication. Most clients come to me because they already connect with my style, so I have a lot of creative freedom. Still, I always listen carefully to their ideas to make sure the final piece feels meaningful and well-executed.

• How do you stay creatively inspired?

Traveling is my biggest source of inspiration. Experiencing new cultures, visiting museums, and observing everyday life all influence my creativity. Inspiration can come from anywhere when you stay aware of your surroundings.

• Are there any tattoo styles you’d like to explore more?

I’d love to explore more neo-traditional, black and grey, and ornamental work. I’m also interested in combining classical art elements with feminine faces and botanical details while maintaining my colorful style.

• What’s the most underrated tattoo style?

Ornamental. You can create beautiful compositions with simple elements by following the flow of the body.

• What’s the most overrated tattoo style?

Realism.

• Are there any tattoos you prefer not to do?

I prefer creating original designs. If someone brings in a very common idea, I usually suggest something more unique for them.

• What tools and machines do you prefer to use?

My go-to machine is the FK Irons Flux Max—in hot pink, of course. It’s powerful, consistent, and reliable.

• Do you have sponsors? If yes, what could you tell us about your sponsors?

Yes, I work with several great brands. I use Fusion Ink for vibrant colors, FK Irons for machines, Hi Tattoo for needles, The Struggle for products like foam and Vaseline, and Tattoo Armour for aftercare.

• As a Tattoo Artist what kind of tattoo ethics is really important to you?

Respect for the client is the most important thing. It’s their body, and their ideas should always be valued.

• Being a successful tattoo artist requires many different skills. What’s your favorite way to keep learning?

Always remembering that you’re a student, never a master.

• Do you like to teach or mentor upcoming artists?

Yes, I love teaching. I especially enjoy mentoring female artists and helping them find their place in the industry. I’ve held seminars in several countries and at my own studio.

• What’s the best piece of advice you ever received to improve your tattooing technique?

Patience. Rushing never leads to good results.

• How do you stay at the top of your game?

By staying humble and open to learning. There’s always something new to understand, even from younger artists or new technologies.

• What do you think separates a good tattoo artist from a great one?

The ability to keep learning and adapting, while staying open-minded and respectful of change.

• How do you feel about the growing acceptance of tattoos in society?

It really depends on where you are. In Mexico, opinions can still be mixed, especially for heavily tattooed women. But younger generations are much more open and accepting.

• What’s the biggest misconception that customers may have about tattoos?

That tattoos stay exactly the same over time. It’s important to educate clients on how tattoos heal and age.

• What’s the biggest trend in tattooing you have noticed in the last 5 years?

Micro realism continues to evolve, though I still have mixed feelings about how it will age long-term.

• What’s your view on the rise of AI in tattooing?

It’s a tool that’s here to stay. It can be useful in certain areas, but it should never replace the human and emotional side of tattooing. The soul of art will always come from the artist.

• What would you change about the tattoo industry?

I’d like to see more respect between artists. Different styles and perspectives should coexist without judgment.

• Do you work on other projects within the tattoo industry?

I’d love to collaborate on my own ink set in the future.

• Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?

Yes, I still draw and paint for myself—it keeps my mind active and my heart at peace.

• Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?

Female tattoo artists who have built strong careers, styles, and brands.

• What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?

I love them. They’re one of the main reasons I travel—meeting artists, seeing incredible work, and building connections is invaluable.

• How do you usually prepare for a tattoo convention?

I prepare new designs, merch, and ideas, often planning larger pieces. It can be stressful, but always rewarding.

• What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?

To push myself, show my work, and continue evolving.

• What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?

Mondial du Tatouage in Paris. Everything about it—the venue, artists, atmosphere—is incredible. It’s truly one of a kind.

• Have you ever had the opportunity to participate in any tattoo contests? You are welcome to specify your awards.

Yes, though not many since I work slowly. I’ve won several awards including Best Color and Best New Styles, and I’ve also judged multiple international conventions.

• Do you collect tattoos from artists you meet at conventions?

Yes, I have a collection from amazing artists around the world, many of whom are now close friends.

• How do you think there are ways tattoo conventions could improve for both artists and the public?

Better equipment and working conditions for artists—especially for those traveling internationally.

• Was there any event in particular that really boosted your career?

Being invited to Gods of Ink was a major milestone—it felt like a recognition of my work on a global level.

• Is there any tattoo that you have created in your career that you are particularly proud of?

My first full back piece is very special to me. It took a year to complete and was presented at a major convention where it received an amazing response. I also collaborated with Universal Studios for the Wicked premiere in 2024.

• What is your greatest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?

Being able to take my style around the world and connect with clients across different cultures.

• What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?

Authenticity and respect will take you the furthest.

• What are your goals or dreams for the near future?

To work internationally, travel more, win major awards, and eventually create my own tattoo brand and ink set.

• What legacy do you want to leave as a tattoo artist?

To be recognized as one of the greatest Latina and Mexican tattoo artists in the world. I’m very proud of where I come from.

• To close this awesome interview, what’s your last message to our readers?

No matter what you do, if you truly love it and enjoy the process, success will follow. The key is to be fully committed and passionate about what you do.