Born in Colombia and now based in the UK, Andy has established himself as a tattoo artist who refuses shortcuts. Focusing on Black and Grey realism, precision, flow, and technical balance matter most. Every tattoo reflects years of study and discipline, resulting in pieces that stay powerful long after the client leaves the chair. His approach earned international recognition in 2023 at the Liverpool Tattoo Convention, where he won both Best Realism Tattoo and Best International Artist. For Andy, these awards are not the finish line, but a reminder that growth never stops.
In a tattoo culture where trends rise and fall, Andy remains anchored in the fundamentals. Realism, for him, isn’t about imitation, but conceptualising tattoos that last and stay relevant, both artistically and structurally. Follow Andy’s path and see how tradition is carried into the future, one line at a time.
Where can your customers find you?
I’m currently based in the UK, where I work in a studio environment that allows me to focus fully on black and grey realism.
How would you define yourself in one word?
Dedicated.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
It started back in Colombia. I was always drawn to the idea of creating permanent art on skin, it felt like the ultimate mix of art, discipline, and human connection.
As a Tattoo Artist, what does your daily working routine look like?
My days are usually long. I spend several hours preparing designs, tattooing clients, and then finishing with aftercare guidance. Outside of tattooing, I’m constantly researching and improving my technique.
What is one surprising aspect of being a tattoo artist?
People often think it’s just about tattooing, but so much of it is psychology, understanding your clients, their stories, and what they want to carry on their skin forever.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
Seeing my clients’ reactions when they look in the mirror is the best payoff for the hours of concentration and effort.
How would you define your current tattoo style, and how did you end up focusing on it?
I specialize in black and grey realism. I started with color and line work early in my career, but realism gave me the challenge and satisfaction I was searching for.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
I begin with a consultation, making sure I understand their vision. Then I build the design digitally, paying close attention to proportions, light, and flow. Finally, I map it on their body so the piece feels natural.
How do you balance client requests with your artistic vision?
I always listen to their ideas first, but I also guide them on what will age best and look strongest as a tattoo. It’s about finding that sweet spot where their concept and my style merge.
As a Tattoo Artist, what kind of tattoo ethics is really important to you?
Respect for the client and respect for the craft. That means hygiene, honesty, and never rushing a piece just to get it done.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received to improve your tattooing technique?
“Slow down! Let the machine do the work.” That changed everything for me.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
By being consistent, training my eye daily, testing new techniques, and learning from other top artists.
How do you feel about the growing acceptance of tattoos in society?
It’s incredible. Tattoos are no longer seen as taboo; they’re recognized as art and self-expression.
What’s the biggest misconception that customers may have about tattoos?
That a tattoo will look exactly the same in 20 years as the day it’s done. Longevity depends on placement, aftercare, and skin type.
What’s your view on the rise of AI in tattooing?
I see it as a tool. It can help with inspiration and design ideas, but it will never replace the human touch, the connection, and the discipline that come with a real tattoo.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
Conventions are intense but rewarding. It’s where I get to connect with other artists, share techniques, and push myself under pressure.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
To grow as an artist and to showcase my work to a broader audience. It’s also a way to keep my art evolving by staying up-to-date with industry trends.
Have you ever had the opportunity to participate in any tattoo contests?
Yes, I’ve competed in contests, the most important of which was in 2023 in Liverpool, and I won two awards. Best Realism Tattoo and Best International Artist both in that same year.
Is there any tattoo that you have created in your career that you are particularly proud of?
Yes, every time I finish a large-scale black and grey realism piece, it feels like a milestone, it shows how far I’ve come since my early days in Colombia.
What is your greatest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
Moving to the UK after being invited by a major company. That recognition validated all the sacrifices I made to get here.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Be patient. Tattooing takes years to master, and the journey is just as important as the destination.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
To keep growing internationally, build my reputation, and one day open a studio that reflects my style and philosophy.
What legacy do you want to leave as a tattoo artist?
I want to be remembered for pushing realism further and for always respecting the craft.
To close this awesome interview, what’s your last message to our readers?
Trust your artist, trust the process, and always choose tattoos that express art. You’ll carry these pieces for life.
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