Alejandro Rubio, also known as “Belial,” is a Mexico City–based tattoo artist whose work channels the raw intensity of black metal into bold, unmistakable designs. Rooted in dark aesthetics and organic forms, his tattoos draw heavily from music, emotion, and years of visual exploration that began long before he ever picked up a machine. What started as fascination evolved into a clear direction—one that continues to define his artistic voice today.
His approach is instinctive and deeply connected to the body. Working often freehand, Alejandro builds compositions that adapt naturally to each client’s anatomy, creating pieces that feel alive rather than applied. There’s a strong sense of identity in his work—both his own and that of the people who trust him—resulting in tattoos that are as personal as they are visually striking.
Driven by perseverance and a constant desire to improve, he moves through the industry with a nomadic mindset, traveling, evolving, and refining his craft. For Alejandro, tattooing is more than a profession—it’s a way of life, a commitment to growth, and a space where passion and discipline meet.
Let’s step into his world.
- How would you like to introduce yourself?
I’m know as “Belial,” but my real name is Alejandro, since many people don’t know that.
- Where can your clients find you?
I’m based in Mexico City at a studio called ethernox.studio, but I also travel around the world—I’m somewhat of a nomad.
- How would you describe the tattoo scene in your country right now?
There are always new talents and new ideas. I think it’s great to see the level of support within the industry.
- How would you define yourself in one word?
Stubborn.
- Where did your fascination with tattoos come from?
Since I was a kid, I used to watch the show Ink Master, and I knew I wanted tattoos when I grew up. Instagram also played a big role in turning that interest into a real passion.
- What does tattooing mean to you personally?
For me, it’s a whole way of life. It’s what puts food on my table, what I’m passionate about, and what motivates me to keep improving artistically. I owe a big part of my life to tattooing.
- At what point in your life did you decide to become a professional tattoo artist?
During the pandemic, I felt lost. I was in school even though I didn’t want to be, so I knew it was time to give tattooing a real chance and work hard to reach my goal.
- How did your family react when you started your career as a tattoo artist?
I always had my family’s support. Even though they didn’t like the idea of me having tattoos, they never stood in my way. They even helped me by buying my first equipment.
- Did you do an apprenticeship? What was that experience like?
Yes, I apprenticed at a studio near my house. It was a typical experience—I had to sweep, clean, and do tasks that had nothing to do with tattooing. But I’m still grateful because it was my first real introduction to a tattoo studio.
- What was your first tattoo like?
It took me a long time to complete both the outline and shading. It turned out well, but I was very nervous, so everything felt slow.
- Do you usually work as a guest artist?
Yes, usually at different studios in Europe. It’s incredible to know that people on the other side of the world are waiting for you—it’s very rewarding and builds confidence.
- As a tattoo artist, what is your daily work routine like?
I usually prepare the design the day before, then rest. The next day I wake up, get ready, and go to the studio to tattoo. I don’t usually stay much longer once I’m done.
- What is one of the most surprising aspects of being a tattoo artist?
Being able to travel the world thanks to tattooing. Meeting people from different countries and creating relationships with them is quite amazing.
- How is the price of a tattoo determined?
I think it depends on experience, healing results, time, style, and the quality of the materials you use.
- What is the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2026?
Staying active on social media—especially creating reels or TikToks—has been one of the hardest transitions for me.
- What is the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
Knowing that each tattoo means someone trusted you enough to create something that will stay on their skin for life.
- What tools and machines do you prefer to use?
I feel most comfortable working with pen machines.
- What is your main aftercare advice for clients?
Keep it simple—clean the tattoo dry for the first three days, then apply cream moderately. I think it’s the easiest and most effective way to heal a tattoo.
- How would you define your current tattoo style and how did you come to focus on it?
I like to call it black metal tattooing, because I draw inspiration from that entire aesthetic. I’ve been drawing fictional logos and listening to black and death metal since I was 13. I’m drawn to organic shapes like tree branches, and to darker, more somber imagery.
- Please explain the process you follow when starting a new tattoo for your clients.
I base the sketch on the person’s anatomy. That’s why I often work 100% freehand, so the design fits naturally with the body.
- How do you stay creatively inspired?
I constantly look at the work of other artists, even in styles very different from my own.
- How do you reconcile clients’ requests with your artistic vision?
I enjoy listening to their ideas and references, and using that as inspiration for what I create on their skin. I think cooperation between both sides is the most important part.
- Is there any tattoo style you would like to explore further?
I’d love to explore blackout more.
- What is the most underrated tattoo style?
Blackwork in general. I rarely see it represented in competitions compared to realism or full color, even though it deserves more recognition.
- What is the most overrated tattoo style?
I have nothing against it, but maybe realism.
- Is there any tattoo you would prefer not to get?
Portraits in general—people, pets, and similar subjects.
- Do you have sponsors? If so, what can you tell us about them?
Yes, I’m currently sponsored by Wolftattoo. Their cartridges are excellent, and I’m very grateful to be part of the Wolftattoo Pro Team.
- As a tattoo artist, what kind of ethics in the tattoo world are really important to you?
Respect is everything—respect for the client, their trust, and the work itself. You should never accept a project if you’re not willing to give it 100%.
- To be a successful tattoo artist, many different skills are required. What’s your favorite way to keep learning?
I consume a lot of tattoo content, so I’m always seeing something new that I’d like to try in my own work.
- Do you like teaching or mentoring emerging artists?
Not really. I’m not very good at explaining, and I’m quite shy.
- What’s the best advice you’ve received to improve your tattooing technique?
Working with low voltage when filling—it has helped me improve a lot.
- How do you stay at the top of your game?
I stay focused. Even with ups and downs, I’m always pushing myself to keep improving.
- What do you think differentiates a good tattoo artist from an excellent one?
Perseverance.
- What do you think about the growing acceptance of tattoos in society?
I think it’s a very positive change. More people are open to getting tattooed, which creates more opportunities to develop new styles and ideas.
- What’s the biggest misconception clients have about tattoos?
That tattoos look bad on older people.
- What’s the biggest trend in the tattoo world you’ve observed in the last 5 years?
Neotribal has grown a lot in popularity.
- What’s your opinion on the rise of AI in the tattoo world?
I think it’s still far from replacing a human artist. AI designs often feel soulless. It can be useful as a tool, but it shouldn’t replace real creativity.
- What would you change about the tattoo industry?
The egos. I think everything would be better if artists supported each other more.
- Do you practice other art forms besides tattooing?
Yes, I draw, paint clothing by hand, create logos for bands or musicians, and sometimes apply my art to different surfaces like walls, books, or canvases.
- Who are the people you admire most within the tattoo community?
I admire Brando Chiesa, 357tattoo, and consumed1993.
- What has your experience been like at tattoo conventions so far?
I’ll be participating in a convention for the first time this year, as a judge.
- Is there a tattoo you’ve created throughout your career that you’re especially proud of?
All of them, because each one represents something meaningful for the person wearing it, and that’s what makes me proud.
- What is your greatest achievement as a tattoo artist?
Being able to develop and maintain a niche style.
- What advice would you give to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
You have to dedicate all your time to it. Tattooing is demanding and doesn’t allow you to lose focus. If you give it everything, it will give you everything back.
- What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
To travel to North America and Asia, continue collecting tattoos, and build a strong legacy.
- What legacy do you want to leave as a tattoo artist?
That people can recognize my work instantly—just by looking at it, they know it was done by “Belial.”
- To conclude this fantastic interview, what is your final message for our readers?
Follow your dreams. If tattooing is one of them, go for it. I don’t regret making that decision for a second.
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