Born and based in Belgrade, Ivan Ekser has carved his name into the world of black and grey realism, blending delicate portraits with bold sci-fi elements. The artist’s journey began unexpectedly at just 15 years old – what was ignited by curiosity soon grew into a lifelong passion. Ivan’s work travels far beyond the borders of Serbia, making him a celebrated artist in the international industry.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
My name is Ivan Ekser. I live and work in my own studio in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. I specialize in black and grey realism infused with science fiction elements, with most of my work focused on human portraits. I enjoy working out at the gym, hiking in my free time, and I’m passionate about FPV drones.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
I’ve been drawing and painting since I was a child, and the freedom of expression has always attracted me. I didn’t intentionally set out to become a tattoo artist; it happened by chance when I was just 15. A friend and I skipped school out of boredom, and he suggested we get tattoos. I agreed, and from the moment I saw the whole process, I knew I wanted to try it myself. Word quickly spread that someone in the neighborhood was tattooing, and what began as a random event turned into my life’s path.
At what point in your life did you become a professional tattoo artist?
As I dove deeper into the tattoo world, learning techniques, styles, and about quality equipment and inks, I developed a desire to attend major tattoo conventions and meet renowned global artists. The more I tattooed, the more I realized I needed to take this profession seriously and approach it professionally as an art form. The turning point came in 2013 when I first entered a professional studio and attended an international tattoo convention.
How do you balance creativity with the client’s personal vision?
I find common ground with clients during the design process by confidently expressing my feelings and thoughts. The client needs to sense that I have a clear vision, passion, and enthusiasm for the design I’ve created. I always present multiple options and explain why a particular design is made just for them. It’s crucial that both the client and I feel the same energy toward the design; that’s when I know I’ll put my all into the piece.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Serbia these days?
The tattoo scene in Serbia is rapidly growing, with an increasing number of talented young artists. The most prevalent style is black & grey realism, though color realism is also gaining traction. Tattoo culture in Serbia has existed for 35 – 40 years, maybe even longer, but today, in 2025, it’s experiencing a real boom, on a global level, I would say.
How would you define your current tattoo style and how did you end up focusing on it?
My tattoo style, black and grey realism, didn’t come to me right away. I spent years working in various styles, including color, searching for what suited me best. During that time, I gained valuable experience and developed my technique. I also love photography, particularly black and white, which I practiced in my spare time. That’s where my love for black & grey realism and portraits was born. Once I felt confident in my abilities, I dared to start doing portraits. I now create portraits almost daily, and recently I’ve been blending in divine and science fiction elements, sci-fi being a genre I’m deeply passionate about.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
When a client gives me a theme, I always ask about the story behind it, whether there’s a specific reason, if they saw a similar idea somewhere, or simply want an image like that. This helps me understand their motive and better conceptualize the idea. Often, there’s a personal story behind every theme. Through relaxed conversation, clients tend to open up and share their stories, and as they do, the image begins to form in my mind. The next step is photo research, which can take hours, followed by building the design. I take this process seriously. If I see the client isn’t fully connecting with the design, I understand completely and search for an alternative. The design needs to resonate with both of us. I’m truly happy when everything comes together on the first try and the client leaves satisfied.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
The most challenging aspects are consistency, persistence, and discipline. But when you do this job with love, I believe that’s the key to everything, along with the desire to grow and learn about new developments in the industry.
What’s a tattoo project that challenged your skills the most?
Every day and every piece tests my skill. Each skin is different and presents a new challenge. Every tattoo pushes my technique, inspired by observing other works. Not a day goes by that I don’t strive to improve. I’ll never forget how focused and concentrated I was while working at the Milan convention and at World of Ink in Poland those were defining moments.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I love conventions. I attended my first one in Budapest in 2013, where I hoped to meet Carlos Torres, Victor Portugal, and Den Yakovlev. My wish came true, I watched them work and even learned from them. Conventions are extremely valuable for learning and inspiration. I’ve attended many in my life, and each one left me with a meaningful experience.
Did you ever participate at any tattoo contest?
There’s hardly a Convention in Germany I haven’t attended. I’ve also participated in conventions in Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Romania, Poland, and the Dominican Republic, winning awards at many of them.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
Attending a tattoo convention offers many benefits: artist promotion, networking with artists and colleagues from around the world, and engaging in a competitive yet inspiring atmosphere. There are also various seminars and opportunities to watch some of the industry’s top names work, which is invaluable for professional growth.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for the artists and the public?
Regarding artists, I believe the World of Ink convention in Poland has set a new standard in how a global event should be organized. Their approach to the event was so well-executed that it became a benchmark. I also think artists should have input in the organization process to maintain focus and respect after all, tattoo artists are the backbone of the global tattoo scene. As for the audience, their engagement depends on the entertainment program, which should be varied and thematic, not repetitive. A great example is the Frankfurt Tattoo Convention.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
World of Ink in Poland is definitely my favorite convention. From the moment I entered, I felt at home. It was exactly how I had imagined a world-class tattoo convention should look. Nearly every major name in the industry was there, many were on the jury, and the location and energy were absolutely epic. I will always remember that event as one of the best. I would also highlight Gods of Ink and Milano Tattoo Convention as some of the finest.
What advice would you give to first-time artists attending or working at a convention?
I would tell others to respect their clients, never push them, or force a large piece just for a trophy. Focus on technique and quality, not speed or size. Arrive with a clear goal and leave the stress at home. Bring only good energy. You’ll likely encounter unfairness at competitions, but let that motivate you to become even better.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
I would say they’re stepping into the most beautiful profession in the world, one that offers ultimate freedom in life, but only if money is not the top priority. That place belongs to art. If the art is good, everything else will follow.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
I admire people who are humble, grounded, open-minded, and generous with their knowledge, while delivering top-quality work.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
My greatest achievement is finding balance, dedicating time to myself and my family despite studio responsibilities and frequent travel. I make time for friends and life outside the studio while still giving my all at top conventions. Another definition of success for me is that this profession allows me to travel the world and enjoy both work and leisure, business and pleasure.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I maintain balance in my work by nurturing other passions outside of tattooing. Sometimes, the workload and constant design creation can be overwhelming, so I train regularly, hike, and engage in activities that fulfil me. This helps me stay energized, consistent, and disciplined in my work, and I love this job more than anything in the world.
What’s the most meaningful feedback you’ve ever received from a client?
Most of my clients travel long distances to book sessions with me. That gives me incredible feedback and energy, especially when they give me a theme but complete creative freedom with the design.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
I’d love to travel more to exotic destinations, visit the United States, and participate in the New York Empire State Tattoo Convention. I also hope my tattoo butter brand breaks into the global market.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Unfortunately, I don’t have any sponsors.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
Work on yourself in all aspects of personal growth. Be persistent, and never stop dreaming. Believe in yourself even when no one else does.
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