We are stoked to present today Marco Condor, a seasoned and very well articulated Italian tattoo artist whose journey blends classic roots with a contemporary touch. Based in Milan, Marco has built a reputation for bold, vibrant tattoos inspired by legends like Sailor Jerry and Ben Corday. His style pays tribute to the golden age of tattooing, reimagined with fresh energy and dynamic precision. Discover Marco‘s story and the foundation behind his timeless approach to skin art.
How would you like to introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Marco Condor, and I’m a tattoo artist based in Milan, Italy. I specialize in traditional and neo-traditional tattooing, drawing inspiration from classic styles while adding my own personal twist. For me, tattooing is more than just ink on skin—it’s about storytelling, identity, and creating lasting pieces of art that truly resonate with each client.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
My fascination for tattoos started from a lifelong passion for drawing and art. Ever since I was a kid, I was always sketching on paper, notebooks, anything I could find. As I got older, I became more and more drawn to the idea of turning that artwork into something permanent and meaningful, something people could carry with them forever. Tattooing felt like the perfect way to merge my love for art with real human connection.
At what point in your life, you became a professional tattoo artist?
I was working as a graphic designer, but I had always been passionate about the world of tattooing. It was something that constantly pulled at me, and I knew I had to follow that path. In 2010, I decided to take the leap and started getting into tattooing. That was the turning point; when I chose to chase my dream and fully dedicate myself to this craft
Where are you based?
I’m based mainly in Milan, where I live and work, but I’m also active in Padua (my hometown), as well as Verona and Rome. I regularly collaborate with various studios across Italy and Europe, which gives me the chance to meet new artists, explore different styles, and keep evolving in my work.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in your country these days?
The tattoo scene in Italy is constantly growing. There’s a new wave of super talented young artists bringing fresh energy and creativity, which is amazing to see. At the same time, there’s a lot of commercial influence lately, and sometimes it feels like we’re drifting a bit from the roots of the craft, both in terms of values and style. Still, there’s a strong community and real passion behind the work, which keeps the scene alive and evolving.
How would you define your current tattoo style and how did you end up focusing on it?
My current style is classic traditional. Lately, I’ve been diving deeper into studying old-school legends like Sailor Jerry, Joe Lieber, Ben Corday and Picture Machine etc. I’m really focused on bringing that strong foundation back into my work, but with a slightly softer and more dynamic touch—using bright, vibrant tones to give it a fresh feel while still honoring the roots.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
When I start a new tattoo, I usually begin with a lot of reference research. I have a pretty big collection of books I always go back to: flash books, sketchbooks, and even painting books. I like to mix visual references from different sources to build something solid and timeless. Once I’ve gathered the main elements, I rework them in my own style, keeping the classic structure and symbolism, but giving it a more dynamic flow and bright, vibrant tones. For me, it’s important that the tattoo not only works technically, but also fits the client naturally and has a strong visual impact.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
One of the most challenging aspects of being a tattoo artist in 2025 is keeping up with the fast evolution of styles. There are so many new trends and techniques emerging all the time, and it can be tough to stay current while staying true to your own style.
The scene is super competitive, so standing out without losing your artistic identity is a real challenge. For me, it’s all about staying consistent, evolving naturally, and focusing on what makes my work unique.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The most rewarding part of being a tattoo artist is building trust and long-term relationships with clients. It’s not just about doing a good tattoo—it’s about understanding their ideas, bringing them to life, and seeing their satisfaction, especially over time. When someone keeps coming back and puts that trust in your hands, it really means a lot. That loyalty and connection are what make this job truly fulfilling.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I’ve taken part in several national and international tattoo conventions, and it’s always a great experience. It’s a chance to challenge yourself, meet other artists, connect with new clients, and be part of the community. I really enjoy the energy at conventions: sharing ideas, getting inspired, and building relationships with both fellow artists and collectors.
Did you ever participate at any tattoo contest?
Yes, I’ve participated in several tattoo contests over the years and have been lucky enough to win a few awards. It’s always an honor to have your work recognized in that way. That said, lately I’ve been more focused on the overall experience—really dedicating time and attention to each client and their tattoo. Because of that, I don’t always take part in contests as often, but I still value them as a way to grow and connect within the tattoo community.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
My main reason for attending tattoo conventions is the prestige and satisfaction of being part of some of the most important events, especially those outside of Italy. It’s always an honor to work alongside top artists and showcase your work to a broader audience.
It’s also a great opportunity to build new connections with fellow artists, share ideas, and catch up with old friends in the industry. The atmosphere is always inspiring and full of creative energy.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for the artists and the public?
I think one way tattoo conventions could really improve is by focusing more on meritocracy when selecting artists. It would be great to see a strong lineup based on the quality of the work, rather than just connections, follower count, or who you know. There are so many talented artists out there who deserve more visibility, and a fair, skill-based selection would make conventions even more inspiring, for both artists and the public.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
So far, my favorite tattoo convention has been the Mondial du Tatouage in Paris. The level of artistry there was incredible, some of the best tattooers from all over the world in one place. The organization was also top-notch, which made the whole experience smooth, enjoyable, and even fun. It really set a high standard both professionally and personally.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
My advice to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist is to be prepared for a serious commitment. These days, it’s not easy, there’s a lot of competition, so it takes real dedication, study, and time. You have to draw constantly, stay curious, and be open to learning from others. It’s important to study art in general, but also to dive deep into the work of the most influential tattoo artists in history. Finding your own style takes time, and it comes through research, observation, and a lot of practice. Stay humble, stay hungry, and always keep growing.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
There are so many artists I admire in the tattoo community, including some absolute legends who are still tattooing today. I honestly prefer not to name specific contemporary artists, just out of respect, I wouldn’t want to leave anyone out or disappoint anyone I look up to. That said, when it comes to historical figures, I really admire artists like Joe Lieber, Ben Corday, Owen Jensen, Don Ed Hardy, Bob Roberts, and Mike “Rollo” Malone. Their work laid the foundation for everything we do today, and their influence is still huge.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
My biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist isn’t tied to one single moment, but rather the journey I’ve built over the years. Being able to gain the trust of my clients, see them return, and watch my tattoos stand the test of time is something I’m truly proud of. Also, having the chance to travel, work at international conventions, and be invited as a guest in respected studios has been a big achievement for me. It means that staying true to my style and continuing to grow through study and dedication is paying off. Most of all, I feel accomplished every time a client leaves happy and proud of what we created together, it’s what keeps me inspired every day.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I stay at the top of my game by constantly studying and pushing myself to improve. I spend a lot of time drawing, researching references, and studying both classic tattooers and fine art. Traveling and experiencing different places and cultures gives me a lot of inspiration. It helps me see things from new perspectives and constantly pushes me to find fresh ideas and new approaches to my work. Most of all, I focus on staying consistent and true to my style, while always staying open to growth and evolution.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
Yes, I do! I paint and draw constantly. It’s a big part of my creative process outside of tattooing. I like experimenting with different techniques, using various types of colors, tools, and materials like paper, canvas, or wood. It helps me stay inspired, improve my compositions, and explore ideas that sometimes make their way into my tattoo work too. Working on paper, canvas, or even unconventional materials allows me to disconnect a bit from the routine and reconnect with the roots of artistic expression. For me, it’s all part of the same journey.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
One of my main goals for the near future is to continue traveling and working around the world. I’d love to explore new places, experience different cultures, and connect with people from all walks of life while sharing my art. Being able to work internationally not only pushes me creatively but also helps me grow both as an artist and as a person. My dream is to make a name for myself globally, building relationships and leaving my mark on the tattoo community everywhere I go.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Yes, I have a sponsor: Gtech Tattoo Machine. I’ve been using their machines for quite some time now, and I can confidently say they’re among the best in the industry. Reliable, precise, and powerful. They enable me to perform at my best during every session. Gtech Tattoo Machine is a brand created by a tattoo artist from Bolzano, which adds a personal and professional touch to their products. For me, the fact that they are designed by a fellow tattoo artist gives them extra value. You can check out their products here: https://www.gtech-pen.com/.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
If you’re thinking about getting tattooed, take your time to research and find an artist whose style resonates with you. A tattoo is much more than just ink on skin, it’s a personal piece of art that will be with you forever. It’s important to choose something that reflects who you are, and trust the artist’s creative process. Be open to their advice, both artistic and technical, without imposing too many restrictions or boundaries that might limit their creativity. Tattoos are a form of self-expression, and when done thoughtfully, they can carry deep meaning and significance. Trusting the artist’s vision allows the process to flow more naturally and results in a piece that’s unique and meaningful. Stay creative, stay inspired, and keep learning. Every tattoo is part of an ongoing artistic journey.
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