We sit down with Atanas, better known as Nasco, a master of Ornamental Lettering and Calligraphy whose work has been turning heads across Europe. Beyond the needle, he has built a career that perfectly balances artistry, discipline, and a relentless passion for his craft. Whether you’re an aspiring tattooist or simply a fan of the art, Nasco’s story is a lesson in staying true to your vision. From his artistic influences to his dreams of publishing a book and leaving a lasting legacy, this conversation celebrates a tattooist making his mark, not just on skin, but in the hearts of those he inspires.
For readers who may not be familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
My name is Atanas, known as Nasco. My career began six years ago in Milan, Lombardy. I specialize in Lettering and Ornamental Calligraphy. Today, I’m based in Cervia, Emilia-Romagna, though I often travel across Europe and beyond for conventions and guest spots.
Where does your fascination for tattoos come from?
Since I was a kid, I was captivated by tattooed people I’d encounter along the way. Like musicians, fighters, or simply someone passing by on the street. Then, one day, I discovered Miami Ink on MTV, and I completely fell in love with that lifestyle. What fascinated me back then, and still excites me today, is the creative process: how an idea transforms into a design, and the deep connection that forms between the tattooer and the client through something that becomes part of them forever.
That felt incredible to me, and I knew it was the path I wanted to follow. I started buying tattoo magazines, redrawing the pieces I liked most, and searching for as much information as I could about drawing, tattooing techniques and all the skills needed to begin, even as a hobby. But my passion and interest grew so intensely that I eventually realized I couldn’t live without it.
How and when did you start tattooing?
I took my first steps into this world, almost as a game, in 2011 with a friend. We bought a small kit and practiced on pigskin (at the time synthetic skin wasn’t available) and on ourselves. Back then, I didn’t have much time to draw and wasn’t taking it too seriously yet. I mostly focused on assembling machines, testing designs, and experimenting calmly. Once I realized this was going to be my true and only career, I put all my effort into it. I enrolled in several workshops to sharpen my technique, develop my own style, and find my place within this world.
Where are you based?
I’m currently based in Cervia, Emilia-Romagna, but I often travel abroad for guest spots and conventions.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in your country these days?
I’d say it’s divided into two categories. Luckily, in Italy we have many skilled artists who I consider inspiring and who contribute to building a strong professional network. However, the market is quite saturated, as in many other countries. It’s still easy to tell the difference between artists who tattoo out of pure passion, constantly improving themselves and seeking to deliver the best experience for clients, and those who start because of the trend but lose their way along the path. Many young people nowadays choose tattooing as their very first career, which is a great opportunity, but this job is not as simple as it might look.
In my case, I made a lot of sacrifices to get here. I worked other jobs to support myself, waking up at dawn, staying up late drawing, spending hours in studios just to observe colleagues and learn by watching. I did this for two years straight. Unfortunately, I often don’t see this same drive in the younger generation, who expect everything immediately. This risks diminishing the culture of tattooing. The importance of building your own identity, respecting the rules, knowing its history, and keeping its ethics alive. Otherwise, it becomes a profession that people assume they can just step into at any moment.
How would you define your tattoo style?
I would describe my style as Ornamental Lettering. I always try to understand the client’s personality before designing. Of course, the message they want to express matters, but visually, the same word can convey two very different emotions depending on how it’s drawn. Following the right flow and finding the perfect way to communicate what the client wants is often the biggest challenge for me, even before I start sketching.
What kind of tattoo projects do you enjoy the most?
I love having creative freedom with lettering. The bigger the piece, the more challenging it is for me and I thrive on that. It pushes me to raise the bar, experiment, and create something fresh every time.
What is your main source of inspiration for tattoos?
For lettering, I also look at tattoos from other artists, artworks, and old paintings. I keep several reference books that I revisit from time to time. These days, I often sketch and explore shapes that catch my eye and feel satisfying to me. Even when I’m drawing less, I suddenly notice shapes, that spark ideas again. That’s usually when inspiration hits hardest, and new projects start to flow.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Definitely the social media side, connecting with the right audience is not easy. On top of that, keeping up with constant evolution while balancing daily life and work is tough, because time never seems to be enough.
What’s the most rewarding part of being a tattoo artist?
Without a doubt, the freedom this career gives me. And also the priceless bond that forms with clients during a session, when they relax, feel comfortable, we chat, and in the end they look in the mirror and smile at their new piece. That feeling is truly beyond compare.
What has been your experience with tattoo conventions so far?
I’ve been attending conventions for three years now, usually at least four a year. So far, I’ve only done only one in Italy. The experiences have been mixed, but overall, they’ve helped me meet new artists, build networks, and grow both professionally and personally.
Do you remember your very first tattoo convention?
Absolutely, it was in Namur, Belgium. At first, I was a bit anxious, but I quickly relaxed and had an amazing experience. I was lucky because everything was well organized, and the other artists were very welcoming. After that, I never stopped. I realized that having the right mindset is crucial when attending a convention.
What’s your main reason for participating in a tattoo convention?
For me, at this stage, it’s about expressing my identity and showcasing my vision. Some artists focus more on walk-ins and connecting with new clients, which is also valid. It depends on your goals. Personally, I’ve done both, but now I feel driven to leave my mark and create art that truly reflects my vision.
Do you have a favorite tattoo convention so far? Why?
Honestly, I don’t have one favorite. Of course, I’ve enjoyed some conventions more than others, but that’s part of the journey. I feel very fortunate to have friends and connections with amazing artists worldwide, so every trip is also a chance to reunite and share the experience fully. Every convention has left me with incredible memories, it always feels like a celebration, filled with inspiration, passion, and new friendships.
What advice would you give someone who’s considering a career in the tattoo industry?
To really think it through and take the path seriously. Tattooing requires discipline, ethics, respect, passion, and above all, originality.
Who do you admire most within the tattoo community?
There are many, artists I already know and others I’d love to meet, just to exchange ideas and understand the mindset behind their art.
What has been your greatest achievement as a tattoo artist so far?
So far, I’m grateful to say I’ve achieved quite a few milestones. For example, since the beginning of 2025, I’ve participated in four conventions in four different countries. I placed 3rd in “Best of Other Styles” in Chiuduno (Bergamo) and 1st in Lettering in Lugano, Switzerland. Traveling, gaining experience, and continuously evolving in this field makes me feel more alive than ever.
Do you practice any other forms of art besides tattooing?
Yes, I enjoy painting, and in the future I’d like to experiment with oil colors. I also play the drums and practice martial arts. I always try to express my personality in everything I do.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
My main goal is to keep evolving both as an artist and as a person. I want to refine my style, create larger and more challenging pieces, and continue traveling the world to share my work and connect with people. I’d love to publish a book of my lettering designs one day and leave something tangible behind for future generations of tattooers. Above all, my dream is to keep doing what I love every single day, inspiring others while staying true to myself.
Is there anything else you would like to say to our readers?
Be Real and bring your vision to the World.
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