From sailor tattoos that shaped his childhood imagination to bold, color-saturated works that read like graphic novels on skin, Azat Kamaletdinov has developed a distinct voice in contemporary tattooing. Originally from Russia and now based in Los Angeles at Monna Lisa Tattoo Studio, he merges digital-art sensibilities with tattoo craft to create vibrant, cartoon-inspired pieces rooted in anime, pop culture, and inventive crossovers.
Grounded and uncompromising about quality, Azat shares his thoughts on color, longevity, and the discipline required to build a lasting career in modern tattooing.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
Hello! My name is Azat Kamaletdinov. I’m a tattoo artist and illustrator from Russia, currently living and working in Los Angeles (Westwood) at Monna Lisa Tattoo Studio. I specialize in bold, illustration-style tattoos with a strong cartoon vibe – think Pokémon, anime, pop culture, and quirky crossovers. Basically, anything that can turn into a vivid story on the skin.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
It started in childhood. I was obsessed with my grandfather’s tattoos, he was a sailor. Those faded anchors and ships completely blew my mind. I could stare at them for hours.
At what point in your life did you become a professional tattoo artist?
I started tattooing in 2014. I quit my engineering job and went all-in on tattooing. Before that, it had been a side hobby for a couple of years.
How do you balance creativity with the client’s personal vision?
I always start with the client’s idea and what matters most to them. While keeping the core concept intact, I add my own creative spin, especially through vibrant colors and strong contrasts. If there’s a character involved, it always takes center stage.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in your country these days?
Globally, gray wash and realism still dominate. But things are shifting. More and more people want something unique instead of just copying a cool tattoo they found online.
How would you define your current tattoo style, and how did you end up focusing on it?
My style is rooted in digital art. Illustrators and digital artists inspired me far more than traditional tattooers. Over time, I mixed techniques from different influences and eventually carved out my own direction.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
First, we discuss the idea and placement. I ask for reference images and a written breakdown of what’s most important to the client. If needed, we meet in person, and I draw a hand-drawn stencil directly on the body to fit their anatomy. Then I create a sketch, show it, make adjustments, and get final approval. Once everyone’s excited, we lock it in and start tattooing. This way, clients know exactly what the final piece will look like.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Staying on top of everything. Designing, answering DMs, posting content, and dealing with insane competition. You have to be great at everything at once and juggle a million tasks daily.
What’s a tattoo project that challenged your skills the most?
There’s no single “most difficult” project, but I often turn down cover-ups. Trying to cover heavy, dark blackwork with color, without laser removal first is nearly impossible. I’m always honest about that and pass on those jobs.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I’ve been to many tattoo conventions in different countries, organized in very different ways. I have a lot of experience and understand how much conventions can vary.
Did you ever participate in a tattoo contest?
Yes, I always enter categories that fit my style. I’ve won Top Prize of the Day multiple times and also Best of Show awards more than once.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
It’s a powerful way to level up my skills, meet new people, and exchange knowledge. Conventions are one of the few real growth opportunities outside of social media.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for artists and the public?
Sometimes there are issues, music that’s too loud, cramped booths, last-minute furniture rental cancellations. Some things are minor, but organizers should definitely pay closer attention to these details.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far, and why?
Sinners Expo in Dallas, Texas. The organization is top-notch, and the support for artists is incredible at every level.
What advice would you give to first-time artists attending or working at a convention?
Enjoy the vibe. Don’t be shy about talking to big-name artists. Don’t stress about the competition. Focus on doing your absolute best tattoo without rushing. Winning isn’t the main thing; the tattoo will stay with someone forever and carry memories. If you win, that’s just a bonus.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Don’t do it for the money. You need real passion. Without obsession and grit, you won’t last. Draw constantly, try every style, find your voice, connect with people, and don’t isolate yourself. Work in a legitimate shop not at home and keep investing in your art skills.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
Artists who truly shake things up. Those who bring fresh ideas, push the culture forward, and create new meaning instead of walking the same old path.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
Taking color tattooing to the next level. I’m obsessed with finding the perfect balance between technique, color, and composition. I always think about how the tattoo will age and stay harmonious for life.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I never stop grinding. I draw constantly, attend conventions, collaborate with other artists, run workshops, and take workshops myself. Growth never stops.
What’s the most meaningful feedback you’ve ever received from a client?
When clients come back years later for more work. Hearing a sincere “thank you” and seeing that spark in their eyes never gets old. Every review tied to a personal story means everything to me.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
I dream of a motorcycle road trip across the U.S. full immersion, new places, fresh inspiration.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Yes, I’m proud to be sponsored by @radiantcolorsink and @kingpintattoosupply. Radiant inks stay insanely vibrant, and Kingpin’s gear keeps my setup perfectly dialed in. I couldn’t push my color work without their support.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
A huge thank you to everyone who follows my work and supports what I do. I appreciate every single one of you.
Leave A Comment