Ten years in, Angelika Steele doesn’t chase trends, algorithms, or easy validation. She works the way tattooing was always meant to be done: With focus, responsibility, and real connection. Based in Brighton & Hove, with strong roots in Ukraine, her work sits somewhere between Black & Grey, graphics, and illustrative realism. Though she’s the first to tell you labels don’t matter much. Angelika openly about what it actually means to become a professional tattoo artist, why confidence only comes after years of doubt, and how today’s industry demands artists be both creators and self-managed brands. She shares her views on conventions, competitions, discipline, and why loving the process is the only real advantage that lasts.
No hype, no fake motivation, just an honest conversation with an artist who’s still pushing, still questioning, and still showing up for the work every single day.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
Hi, I’m Angelika Steele. I’ve been working in the tattoo industry for over ten years, and I genuinely love what I do.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember, but I always felt that my art needed a different weight and a different purpose than paper could give. Tattooing combines technique, intention, and connection with another person. It’s not just about decoration, it’s about making a conscious, lasting choice. I’ve always been drawn to that level of responsibility in art.
At what point in your life did you become a professional tattoo artist?
I started in 2014, directly in a tattoo studio. After a few tattoos on my brave friends, the studio owner told me I was ready to work with real clients.
But was I a professional at that moment? Of course not. That title doesn’t come with your first paid tattoo. It comes with years of practice, mistakes, and refinement. I started feeling like a true professional only in the last few years, when consistency, confidence, and my own approach finally formed.
Where are you based?
I’m currently based in Brighton & Hove in the UK, but I stay connected to Ukraine and return to work there whenever I can.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in your country these days?
Both in Ukraine and in the UK, the industry is growing fast. In Ukraine, the quality of work and the level of technique have made a massive leap forward despite all circumstances. In the UK, there are strong stylistic schools and high professional standards. I’m grateful to be part of two very different, but equally progressive scenes.
How would you define your current tattoo style, and how did you end up focusing on it?
In Europe my style is often classified as black & grey, in Ukraine it’s called “graphics,” and in the UK people refer to it as illustrative realism. For me, it’s not about labels, it’s simply the natural result of my techniques, preferences, and the way I see things.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
For me, everything starts with the client’s energy and intention. I try to understand what they want to express through the tattoo. When there is synergy between us, the right composition and rhythm appear naturally. It’s not only about technique, it’s about connection.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Branding, marketing, and targeting. Today a tattoo artist has to be both an artist and a manager of their own brand.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The tattooing process itself. It’s a state of deep focus where nothing exists except the work and the moment.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I’ve participated in many European conventions. First as an artist, and more recently as a judge. The atmosphere is always dynamic: competition, inspiration, networking, and exchange of experience.
Did you ever participate in any tattoo contest?
Yes, many times and I’ve won awards in different categories. It’s a great way to challenge yourself and test your skills.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
Every convention is a real professional booster. You see the work of other tattoo artists, notice your own strengths and weaknesses, and return home with a clear vision of what to improve.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for the artists and the public?
Better lighting, more space for artists, and slightly quieter music. Working for two days straight under extremely loud beats — the kind even active noise-cancelling headphones can’t block is very challenging.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
My first convention in Kharkiv, Ukraine in 2020. I arrived there without a banner, without support, and without knowing anyone just my work and my table. And I still won a prize. That moment made it clear to me that in this industry, quality truly matters most.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
If you don’t love this profession with passion, don’t start at all. This is not a field where you can easily earn a lot, especially in the first years. This path only works if you love the process itself.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
I admire the work of @levgenknysh, the collaborations of @Kasasink and @amayratattoo, and the work of @timur_lysenko and @alessandrocovalerrotattoo.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
I don’t feel that I’ve achieved anything I could be 100% proud of yet. I always want more,… and that drive keeps me moving forward.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I constantly analyze my work, notice my mistakes, and aim to make the next piece better. I’m driven more by dissatisfaction with the result than by praise.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
Yes! Oil painting and watercolor. I love working with paint, though I rarely have enough time for it.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
In Ukrainian we have a saying: “Don’t say «hop» until you’ve jumped.” I try not to speak too much about plans or success until they’re achieved — the path can change at any moment, and I respect that.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Yes. From the beginning of my career I was a big fan of Kwadron — one of the best European brands in our field. When they invited me to join their team, it was a great honor. I’m happy to be part of what they’re building and to contribute something new.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
Only one thing truly matters: Genuine love for the process. When you have that, everything else: Technique, style, clients, and growth,… Comes naturally. In tattooing, the only real power belongs to those who truly love the craft.
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