Alex Prequel is an Italian born tattoo artist whose background in classical fine art shapes the experimental nature of his work today. Before entering tattooing, he studied at an art high school and later graduated from an art academy in Italy. This foundation in traditional art continues to influence the expressive, layered approach that defines his tattoos.
Known primarily for abstract tattoo compositions, Alex Prequel embraces constant experimentation. His work moves fluidly between abstract structures, watercolor inspired elements, Asian influenced motifs, light realism, and blackwork. Rather than limiting himself to a single formula, he approaches each project as an opportunity to explore new visual directions.
Since beginning his tattoo career in 2013, Alex Prequel has built an international presence through conventions, guest spots, and magazine features. Today he continues to travel and collaborate with clients from around the world who seek his ever evolving artistic style.
Let’s step into his world.
- How would you like to introduce yourself?
My name is Alex Prequel. I started drawing from a very young age and later attended an art high school in Italy before graduating from an art academy there.
During my studies I worked with many artistic techniques such as live portrait drawing, acrylic painting, clay modeling, charcoal work, and other traditional disciplines. That experience gave me a strong artistic foundation.
After finishing school, I began tattooing around 2013. Two years later I opened my own private studio, which I ran until 2021 before relocating to North America. Over the years I have participated in many tattoo conventions, guest spots, magazine features, and competitions.
What attracted me to tattooing was the emotional dimension of placing art on the human body. Drawing is powerful, but tattooing transforms a piece of art into something someone carries for life.
- How did your family react when you started a career in tattooing?
They were quite skeptical, as you can imagine. At the time there was no clear idea of what the future or financial stability of tattooing could look like.
- Did you go through an apprenticeship? How was that experience?
Not really. Most of my learning was self driven. I spent a few months observing a tattoo artist in a studio back home and attended some conventions with them. Being around that environment really fueled my motivation and pushed me to pursue tattooing more seriously.
- What did your first tattoo look like?
My first tattoo was actually on myself, on my leg. It wasn’t too bad. The fact that it’s still there without needing a coverup is probably a good sign.
- Do you usually do guest spots? If yes, what’s your experience in doing them?
Yes, I do guest spots and I really enjoy them. It’s always great when the shop is well organized and everything runs smoothly. I also love tattooing people from different places and meeting new clients while traveling.
- How do you determine the price of a tattoo?
Usually based on the overall concept of the project, the approximate size, and the placement on the body.
- What tools and machines do you prefer to use?
I prefer using rotary machines and wireless pen style machines.
- What’s your number one aftercare advice for clients?
If we use second skin such as Saniderm, the bandage should usually stay on for about two to three days.
Gently peel the bandage back over itself in the direction of hair growth, ideally under warm running water to loosen the adhesive. Avoid pulling upward, as this can be painful. After removal, wash the tattoo with mild soap, pat it dry, and apply moisturizer. Do not apply another bandage. For the next three to four weeks, keep the tattoo moisturized by applying a light layer of ointment twice daily. If irritation or fluid buildup occurs, remove the bandage sooner.
- How do you stay creatively inspired?
I like to say that inspiration comes from everything around me. Nature, films, cartoons, furniture, textures, decorations, walls, or everyday objects can all inspire ideas. If you pay attention to your surroundings, almost anything can become inspiration for a tattoo or drawing.
- Do you have sponsors? If yes, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Yes, I currently work with several brands including Tattoo Goo, Pepax, Industry Inks, and Proton Stencil.
- What’s the biggest trend in tattooing you have noticed in the last 5 years?
Micro realism has become extremely popular, especially detailed small portraits of people, pets, or objects. Another noticeable trend is patchwork sleeves, where people collect many smaller tattoos over time instead of committing to one large sleeve design.
- What’s your view on the rise of AI in tattooing?
AI is becoming a design accelerator. Clients use it to generate ideas, mix styles, or visualize placements, while artists can use it for reference gathering or composition exploration.
In some ways it reminds me of how Photoshop changed the industry years ago. It speeds up the creative process, but it cannot replace technical skill, experience, or artistic intuition.
- What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I’ve been attending conventions since 2017 and I really enjoy them. They can be chaotic and intense, but the atmosphere is exciting. It’s always great to be surrounded by artists who share the same passion, and conventions are also a good opportunity to tattoo clients from different cities and sometimes explore new places.
- To close this awesome interview, what’s your last message to our readers?
Wherever you are reading from, feel free to check out and follow my work on Instagram, @alexprequel_tattooartist.
Many of my clients travel long distances or even fly to get tattooed, so don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to chat and plan something interesting together.
While some artists stick to one style, it’s great that Alex embraces experimentation across abstract, watercolor, and even realism. It sounds like his fine art background really gives him the freedom to explore different directions. Does he find clients are usually open to his experimental approach?