Meet Egle Samoilovaite. In the world of tattooing, few things are as inspiring as hearing the story of someone who has turned a lifelong passion into a creative and fulfilling career. With 13 years of experience Egle, is known for her stunning and super clean Neo-Traditional Blackwork tattoos inspirited from folklore, mythology, and nature. Join us as we explore the origins, inspirations, and aspirations of a Tattoo Artist who continues to push creative boundaries with every piece.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
I have been a tattoo artist for 13 years and I love my job! I love the art, the creativity, and the stories behind every piece. Over the years I am constantly trying new things, always looking for inspiration.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
I have been into art since I was little. I spend all of my free time drawing. I have been into tattoos since I was 13. First I saw them on other people, later in magazines. They weren’t very popular at that time, but I was immediately drawn in. I loved the idea of creating art that lives, art that you can keep with you forever. I wanted to be that artist, constantly creating something new.
How and when did you start tattooing?
I started tattooing as soon as I turned 18. Before I spent a lot of time at the tattoo shop, eventually they gave me an apprenticeship. My job then was everything that no one else wanted to do: I cleaned tools, mopped floors, picked up lunch for everyone. In exchange for that they began teaching me. It wasn’t an easy apprenticeship and I was left alone often to figure things out on my own. I learned how to teach myself and grow on my own.
Where are you based?
I am based in Denver, Colorado.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in the United States these days?
The tattoo scene in the US now is incredibly lively, diverse and it is a unique time in tattooing history. There are so many talented artists, and the artists’ voices are louder than ever. We get to show our art to the world, and it makes me happy to see tattoos becoming more accepted in society.
How would you define your tattoo style?
I’m not sure if there is a defining word for the tattoos I create, but I like to call my style “Neo-Traditional Black work”. My almost traditionally bold outlines combined with modern designs give a sense of Neo traditional. I almost exclusively tattoo with black and grey inks, and my designs emphasize contrast between black and negative space, which is similar to some black work. A lot of what I tattoo is inspired by folk-lore, fairy tales, and mythology from different cultures. I love the dark elements in a lot of these stories and try to project that feeling into the designs I draw.
What kind of tattoo projects do you like to do the most?
I really like working on projects where I have a lot of creative freedom.
What’s the main source of inspiration for your tattoos?
I draw a lot of inspiration from nature, fairy tales, folklore, and mythology: eastern and western.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
A happy client. At the end of the day what we create is for people who love our work. When they walk out the door I want them to feel proud of the piece they got from me. When they are, I feel most fulfilled.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I love them! I love meeting new people, everyone is always so friendly and open towards each other. The atmosphere is amazing. It is exciting to see so many talented artists all in one place, making friends, competing, sharing their knowledge all at the same time.
Do you remember the first tattoo convention you have ever been to?
The first convention I went to was the New York Tattoo Convention in 2023. It was amazing! I had so much fun at the convention, and I even won Second place in the Small Black and Grey Category!
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
I enjoy travelling and meeting other artists. I like talking about tattoos and learning about tattooing from people. I also enjoy entering competitions!
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
It’s hard to choose! I very much enjoyed the Caserta Tattoo Convention I attended in 2024. The people I met were so welcoming and friendly, the weather was beautiful, and so was the city.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Draw. Draw as much as you can. Practice and remember that there always is room for growth. No one ever knows everything about tattooing, there’s always something new to learn. And in never ending learning there’s joy because it never gets old. If you are tired of one style, there are resources to learn a new style or technique.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
The people I admire most in the tattoo community are artists who are doing large and unique pieces that are drawn directly on the client, right before the tattooing process begins. I’m happy to say I have met some of these artists and they are very inspiring to me!
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
I am really happy that I have reached a point where I have been able to travel to different countries to showcase my work.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
Yes! I draw every day, and I love to oil paint. I also make digital art for posters and t-shirts.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
I have so many goals and dreams for the near future. I want to attend more conventions, I am always improving my work, and I would love to travel to do more guest spots.
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