Charly Avila is a Cuban-born, Spain-based tattoo artist whose journey reads like a bridge between classical fine arts and the evolving world of contemporary tattoo realism. Raised between Havana and Spain, he entered the world of painting and sculpture at just nine years old. For Charly, a tattoo is never just an image, it is a personal exchange, a story carried with intention, and a moment of connection that becomes permanent.
His craft has taken him across Europe and beyond, tattooing in Germany, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Colombia, and the United States. With a thoughtful, disciplined approach and an artist’s instinct sharpened by years of exploration, Charly represents a new generation of creators who merge classical training with modern tattoo language. His growing focus on color, his sensitivity to symbolism, and his commitment to technical evolution have quietly positioned him as one of the most compelling voices in today’s realism scene.
Join us as we dive into an exclusive conversation with an artist redefining what meaningful tattooing can be.
How would you introduce yourself to readers who may not know you yet?
Hello everyone! I’m Charly Avila, a tattoo artist and visual creator passionate about transforming ideas and emotions into art on the skin. I have been tattooing for seven years, and my approach goes far beyond aesthetics, each tattoo is a form of connection, a story permanently engraved with intention and meaning. My work is rooted in Black and Grey realism, but color has become my latest passion, opening a new artistic perspective that allows me to develop a more expressive and symbolic style.
I work from masterink.art in Murcia, Spain, and I have had the opportunity to tattoo in countries such as Germany, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Colombia, the United States, and more.
Where are you currently based?
I am currently based in Murcia, Spain, where I work from my own studio. It is a city that inspires me and where I have grown significantly as an artist.
Where did your fascination for tattooing come from?
I was born in Cuba and began studying painting and sculpture at age nine at a fine arts workshop led by Professor Julio Trujillo. When I was seventeen, my family moved to Spain, where I still live today. Tattooing captivated me because it is a permanent and deeply personal form of expression, an art form that does not allow for mistakes, demanding commitment, focus, and respect.
How and when did you start tattooing?
Began tattooing in Spain at the age of 21, I motivated by my passion for drawing and the meaningful connection that this art creates with people. I immersed myself in the world of tattooing by observing other artists and practicing relentlessly. My beginnings were mostly self-taught, and over the years I have refined both my style and my technical skills. It has been, and continues to be, an intense process driven by a constant desire to improve.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Spain today?
The tattoo scene in Spain like the rest of the world is in continuous growth. There is an increasing diversity of styles and a community that is constantly evolving and pushing artistic boundaries. Realism remains incredibly strong, with a high demand for portrait-level work. There is also a growing culture of collaboration among artists in Spain, which I consider very important. Sharing knowledge and experiences enriches the entire community and helps elevate the industry as a whole.
How would you define your tattoo style?
My style is unique and versatile, strongly rooted in Black and Grey realism. However, in recent years I have embraced color, creating works that have been widely recognized within the tattoo community. I always adapt to what the client is seeking while adding my personal touch. I apply knowledge from other artistic disciplines to tattooing, which allows me to evolve and feel comfortable in any style.
What kind of tattoo projects do you enjoy the most?
I enjoy all kinds of projects, but lately I feel especially connected to color work. I have developed my own color palette, and I find it thrilling to see how each tattoo comes to life. The challenge fuels my creativity and gives me the same excitement I felt when I first started. I particularly enjoy pieces with deep, symbolic messages, as they allow me to express my full artistic vision.
What inspires your tattoo work the most?
I find inspiration in nature, emotions, personal stories, and social critique. I am also inspired by the work of other artists and everyday life itself. But the greatest inspiration comes from the clients who trust me with their ideas, their stories activate my deepest creativity. For that, I am always grateful.
What is the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Standing out with a unique style, differentiating yourself, and maintaining a presence on social media, despite the fact that online numbers often do not reflect true artistic value. The challenge is to balance competitiveness with authenticity, creating meaningful and personalized work while avoiding the pressures and distortion of social media trends. The community deserves to look beyond numbers and appreciate real art.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The human connection. Knowing that my work becomes a meaningful part of someone’s life is priceless. Seeing healed tattoos maintain their quality over the years brings me immense satisfaction. It is an honor to know that people carry my art with them.
What has been your experience with tattoo conventions?
My first convention was in Cartagena in 2020, where I received two first-place awards in realism. That experience opened the door to many more conventions where I’ve had the chance to tattoo live and be recognized for my work. Something highly motivating for any artist.
Notable conventions where I have been awarded include:
• Alicante (2021, 2022)
• Marbella (2023)
• Brussels (2021)
• Milan (2024)
Most recently, at the 2025 Tattoo International Convention in Jerez de la Frontera, I received several awards: Best Healed Tattoo, First Place Realism/Color, Best Tattoo of Sunday, and Best of Show. That recognition was extremely meaningful and inspires me to keep evolving.
Do you remember your first tattoo convention?
Yes. As mentioned, it was Cartagena 2020, a very special moment and a major turning point in my career. I realized that pressure brings out the best in my work and that I was truly born to be an artist.
What motivates you to participate in tattoo conventions today?
Continuous learning, sharing with other artists, and showcasing my work in a creative and competitive environment. Conventions offer inspiration, new trends, feedback, and a chance to push myself further. They also create a unique atmosphere where tattoo art is celebrated at its highest level.
Which tattoo convention has been your favorite so far, and why?
The International Convention of Jerez de la Frontera, where my piece received the Best of Show award. the highest recognition at these events. The winning tattoo carried a deep social message and represented my vision of what real art is. I wanted to create a piece that made people stop and think, and I believe I achieved that.
What advice would you give someone considering a career in tattooing?
Be patient, disciplined, and passionate. Practice constantly, seek good mentors, and never lose the human connection with your clients. Grow at your own pace, everyone evolves differently. Enjoy the process without rushing through it.
Which artists within the tattoo community do you admire the most?
More than admiration, I feel deep respect to artists such as Sergio Fernández for his artistic vision, Waler Montero for his composition, Kindamo for his mastery of skin tones and the Chicano style, and Alex Zakharov for the symbolism in his work. I also respect artists who remain humble, develop their own style, and contribute positively to the community.
What do you consider your greatest achievement as a tattoo artist?
I am currently developing a long-term personal project that I believe will become the most significant achievement of my career. Ultimately, only life will define its limits.
Do you practice other forms of art besides tattooing?
Yes. I enjoy drawing, painting, Pop Art, graphic design, and photography. These disciplines enrich my artistic vision and support my evolution as a tattoo artist. In the future, I would love to explore new artistic paths as well.
What are your goals and dreams for the near future?
To continue refining my technique, participate in more international conventions, and collaborate with artists who share my passion for the art of tattooing. My priority is to grow as an artist without losing my essence, evolving while staying true to what inspires me.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the readers?
Thank you to everyone who has trusted me with their skin and their stories. Each tattoo is meaningful, and I feel truly fortunate to be part of so many personal journeys. This is just one chapter in the story of an artist among many, let’s continue celebrating the art of tattooing together.
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