Based in Utrecht, the Netherlands, Elizaveta Omicheva has been refining her craft for over eight years, specializing in the delicate technique of dotwork shading. Known for her patience, precision, and ability to blend texture with flow, she creates tattoos that are both subtle and powerful. Her approach is rooted in deep artistic intention, balancing her own creative vision with the personal stories of her clients.
Hello Elizaveta, how would you like to introduce yourself?
Hi, I’m a tattoo artist based in Utrecht, the Netherlands. I’ve been tattooing for eight years now, and I specialize in dotwork shading, often described as paper shading, whip shading, or simply dotwork, depending on who’s looking at it.
So how would you personally define your tattoo style?
My style is centered around dot work shading I use thin configurations and soft layering to build texture, depth, and contrast. Some call it whip shading, paper shading to me, it’s a tactile, patient process that gives the tattoo a subtle yet powerful presence.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
It started from a deep interest in how art can live on the body and evolve with time. There’s something powerful about creating something permanent personal for each client that also respects the flow and movement of the human form.
At what point in your life did you become a professional tattoo artist?
I turned professional about eight years ago, and since then, it’s been a steady journey of refining my style, learning, and growing both technically and artistically.
How do you balance creativity with the client’s personal vision?
It’s a dialogue. I really value the client’s story and ideas, but I also believe in guiding the process through my own lens. When there’s mutual trust, the result always feels right, unique, personal, and artistically sound.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in the Netherlands these days?
In the Netherlands, the tattoo scene is diverse and constantly evolving. There’s a strong appreciation for both bold and minimalistic styles. Clients are becoming more educated and intentional with their choices, which pushes artists to be even more thoughtful in their work.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
First, I like to understand the idea and emotion behind the tattoo. Then I either sketch digitally or draw freehand directly on the client’s skin, focusing on how the design flows with the body. Placement and scale are just as important as the artwork itself. Once we’re aligned, I take my time to work patiently, building it up layer by layer, especially when it comes to delicate shading.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Staying relevant without compromising your style. With so many trends and digital noise, it can be challenging to protect your creative identity. Also, keeping up with the physical demands of tattooing long-term is something that’s often underestimated, even by myself.
What’s a tattoo project that challenged your skills the most?
Every large-scale piece with intricate dot work challenges me, especially when it involves sensitive placements like ribs or necks. It’s a balance between precision, patience, and reading the client’s comfort throughout the session.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I love conventions. I attend around 4 – 5 each year. Some have become tradition, others I choose for fresh inspiration. It’s a space to connect, observe, grow, and also to recharge by being around passionate creatives.
Did you ever participate in any tattoo contest?
Yes, I take part in the competitions at every convention I attend. It’s a great way to challenge myself, connect with other artists, and get my work seen in a different light. While it’s not the main reason I go, it definitely adds an extra layer of motivation and fun.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
To show my work and see what others are creating, it’s all about the exchange. Conventions are a space to get inspired, connect with fellow artists, meet clients from different parts of the world, and stay sharp. The energy is completely different from the studio intense, but always fulfilling.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for the artists and the public?
For artists, the most important thing is a proper working environment good lighting, enough space to work comfortably, supportive sponsors, and strong promotion of the event. All of that makes a huge difference. For the public, it would be great to see more interactive experiences workshops, talks, or live art sessions, something beyond just walking around and watching.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
It’s hard to pick one each has its own atmosphere. But I always enjoy the ones that balance professionalism with a relaxed vibe. The kind where you can both focus and connect genuinely.
What advice would you give to first-time artists attending or working at a convention?
Be prepared, stay humble, and don’t be afraid to talk to people. Watch others, ask questions, and don’t rush. Conventions are not just about showing off. They’re about growing.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Be patient. Tattooing is not just a skill, it’s a craft, a responsibility, and a way of life. Find your voice, and don’t rush into styles that don’t feel like you.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
I admire artists who stay authentic and consistent with their vision, regardless of trends. Those who put intention into every line and never stop learning, whether they’re big names or not.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
Finding my own visual language. It took years to stop chasing trends and feel fully at home in what I do.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
By staying curious, resting when needed, and constantly observing, not just tattooing, but also art, nature, structure. It all informs how I grow.
What’s the most meaningful feedback you’ve ever received from a client?
When someone tells me the tattoo helped them reconnect with their body or get through a hard time, that always reminds me why I do this.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
I’m aiming to find a better balance between my work in the studio and time for personal creative development. Ideally, I’d like to divide my week in a way that allows space not only for tattooing clients, but also for exploring ideas that truly excite me, whether that’s working on canvas, developing new designs, or experimenting with concepts that go beyond the everyday workflow. I want to stay grounded in my profession, but also make room to grow as an artist on my own terms.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
I don’t have a sponsor at the moment, and that’s absolutely okay. That said, I’m definitely open to future collaborations, as long as they align with my vision, values, and artistic direction. If the connection feels genuine, I’m always open to growing together.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
Trust your artist. And if you’re an artist trust your pace. Growth isn’t always loud, but it’s always worth it.
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