We’re proud to introduce Hans Amesquita, the very first tattoo artist from Peru to be featured in our interview series. Based in Las Vegas but deeply rooted in Latin American culture, Hans brings a powerful blend of technical skill, emotional depth, and cultural pride to the world of black and grey realism.
In this interview, Hans shares his early influences, his rise through the Peruvian tattoo scene, and his current evolution as an artist in the fast-paced world of American tattooing. From large-scale, high-impact blackwork to microrealistic pet portraits, his range is as diverse as his journey.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
I’m a black and grey realism tattoo artist based in Las Vegas, with deep roots in Peru. I’ve been tattooing professionally for over eight years, and I specialize in large-scale, high-impact pieces that fuse realistic detail with bold blackwork. I’m also passionate about microrealistic pet portraits, which have become a unique part of my artistic identity.
How did you get into tattooing?
It started as a mix of curiosity and rebellion. Growing up between Lima and Las Vegas, tattoos always seemed like this raw, powerful form of expression. Over time, I realized it wasn’t just about the image on the skin, but the connection, the transformation, the storytelling. That’s when I fell in love with it.
And then you decided to become a Tattoo Artist?
Yes, I started over ten years ago, in Peru. I went through a two-year apprenticeship at Zhimpa Tattoos, which is one of the most respected studios in the country. Before that, I was experimenting with art on paper and skin, but the real journey began when I committed to learning the craft the right way.
Where are you currently based?
Right now I’m based in Las Vegas, working out of 7 Tattoo Studio. It’s home for now and it’s a city that never stops moving, which really fits my energy.
What can you tell us about the scene in Peru’?
In Peru, the tattoo scene has grown fast over the past decade. It went from something underground to something respected, almost revered. The community is strong, passionate, and proud of its roots. A lot of incredible talent is coming out of Latin America, and I’m grateful to be part of that movement.
You mentioned early on about your tattoo style. What else can you tell us about it?
My style is realistic black and grey, with bold blackwork foundations. I like to create depth and contrast that hits hard, whether it’s a large-scale Grim Reaper chest piece or a tiny hyper-detailed schnauzer. It’s all about storytelling with clarity and emotion.
What kind of tattoo projects do you like to do the most?
Big projects that challenge me creatively and technically. I love chest pieces, forearms, back work—anything that allows for dynamic composition. But I also have a soft spot for micro pet portraits. They’re small but incredibly personal, and I love seeing people’s reactions.
What’s the main source of inspiration for your tattoos?
Life and death, nature, and emotional connection. I draw from classical art, spiritual iconography, and sometimes even dreams or conversations with clients. Each piece is a reflection of a moment in someone’s life, so there’s always a deeper meaning behind it.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Staying balanced. Social media makes everything move fast, and it’s easy to feel like you have to constantly produce content, stay booked, and evolve overnight. On top of that, managing business, life, and mental health can be tough, but it’s worth it.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The trust people give you. It’s not just about ink, people let you into their story. And when they leave with something that feels like it’s part of them, that moment is powerful.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
Conventions have been a huge part of my growth. I’ve met amazing artists, connected with new clients, and pushed myself in ways that don’t happen inside a studio. It’s competitive, but also super inspiring.
Do you remember the first tattoo convention you have ever been to?
Yeah, my first was in Peru, and I was honestly overwhelmed. I didn’t compete, just walked around, watched, and soaked everything in. But it lit a fire in me. I knew I wanted to be on that floor, tattooing.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
To grow. Whether it’s meeting artists I admire, competing, getting feedback, or simply being seen, it all feeds back into my evolution as an artist.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
It’s hard to pick, but the conventions in Latin America always hit different for me. There’s a mix of raw energy, pride, and cultural connection that makes it feel like home, even when I’m pushing myself to the limit.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Take your time. Learn the fundamentals. Don’t chase likes—chase growth. Find a mentor, respect the craft, and never stop studying. Tattooing is art, but it’s also responsibility.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
I admire artists who stay authentic to their style, keep growing, and lift others up in the process. People like Carlos Torres, Zhimpa Moreno, and Daniel Rocha have all inspired me in different ways, not just with their technical skill, but with how they carry themselves and contribute to the culture.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
Opening and leading a 250m² studio in Miraflores, Peru, where I built a team of 15 artists and created something that didn’t exist before. That, and getting to tattoo clients from all over the world who trust me with their stories.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
Yes, I sketch, design digitally, and occasionally paint. I think it’s important to keep other creative outlets alive, especially when tattooing is your full-time career.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
I’m looking to settle down in the U.S. for long-term growth, both as an artist and as a person. The idea is to keep pushing myself here, collect knowledge and experiences, and eventually use all of that to do something bigger back home in Peru, whether that’s sharing what I’ve learned or helping the scene grow even more.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
If you connect with art on a deep level, whether as a collector or an artist, follow that feeling. Tattooing is more than ink, it’s identity, healing, memory, and energy all in one. And I’m grateful to be part of that process every day.
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