This week, we had the pleasure to have a long conversation with Belen! A creative and passionate black & grey tattoo artist with a deep understanding of her craft.
How would you introduce yourself to our readers? Who is Belen?
I am Belen, a tattoo artist originally from Barcelona but currently based on the beautiful island of Ibiza, where I’ve been living for the past few years. My move to this beautiful island has been transformative, both personally and artistically. Ibiza’s unique blend of tranquility and creative energy has inspired me to push the boundaries of my work and connect with people from around the world.
Though Ibiza is my home base, I also travel frequently for guest spots across Europe and beyond. This allows me to collaborate with other talented artists and reach new audiences.
How would you describe the current tattoo scene in Ibiza?
The tattoo scene in Ibiza is a unique blend of diverse influences, much like the island itself. While Ibiza is globally known for its music and party culture, it also attracts a wide range of creative minds, making it a melting pot for art in all its forms, including tattooing. The tattoo community here is vibrant and constantly evolving, driven by both local talent and international artists who come to the island for guest spots or to experience its creative energy.
What’s particularly interesting about Ibiza’s scene is the mix between locals and the international crowd. Many locals have a deep appreciation for the art of tattooing and often seek out large, intricate pieces that tell a story. These clients are typically looking for custom designs that reflect their personal journeys, experiences, or connections to
the island. They often come with a vision for a full sleeve, back piece, or chest piece—tattoos that take time, skill, and a lot of dedication to complete.
Working on these large projects with locals is incredibly rewarding because it allows for a deeper collaboration and a chance to create something truly unique. The process is often spread out over several sessions, building a connection between the artist and the client as the piece gradually comes to life. Locals tend to value this journey and
appreciate the time it takes to create a detailed and meaningful tattoo. It’s this willingness to invest in larger works that adds a special depth to Ibiza’s tattoo scene, contrasting with the more spontaneous, small tattoos that many visitors seek as souvenirs of their time on the island.
Overall, the blend of both international influences and the more grounded, committed approach of local clients makes the tattoo scene in Ibiza dynamic and multifaceted—constantly challenging artists like myself to explore new creative
depths.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
My fascination with tattoos stems from a lifelong passion for art. I’ve been drawing since I was a kid, always captivated by the ability to create something out of nothing.
All aspects of art have fascinated me, from painting to sculpture, but it was the unique, living canvas of tattooing that truly captured my heart. The idea that art could be carried on a person’s skin, evolving with them throughout their life, felt powerful and intimate.
What drew me in even more was the stories behind each tattoo—how a design could hold deep personal meaning and become a part of someone’s journey. For me, tattooing became the perfect fusion of my love for creating and my desire to connect with people on a deeper level. It’s not just about making beautiful images; it’s about taking someone’s story, emotion, or memory and turning it into art that they can carry with them forever. That connection, and the chance to bring a bit of art into someone’s life, is what truly drives my passion for tattooing.
How and when did you start tattooing?
I started tattooing in 2017, after realizing that I wanted to take my passion for drawing and art to a new level. I had always been fascinated by the idea of creating art that people could carry with them, something more permanent and intimate than a painting on a wall. That led me to pursue tattooing seriously, and I immersed myself in
learning everything I could about the craft.
In the beginning, it was a lot of trial and error—hours of practice on synthetic skins and volunteering friends who trusted me enough to be my first canvases. Over time, I began to find my own style and voice as an artist, focusing on realistic black and gray work.
You seem to specialize in realistic black & gray tattoos. How did you end up focusing
on your current tattoo style?
I specialize in realistic black and gray tattoos, striving to create pieces that are both visually striking and deeply meaningful to my clients. For me, tattooing is more than just an art form it’s a collaborative journey of storytelling and self-expression. Each tattoo I create is the result of a close partnership with my client, transforming personal
narratives and emotions into lasting works of art. My goal is to provide a space where people feel comfortable sharing their stories, and to deliver artwork that they will cherish for a lifetime.
My journey into realistic black & gray tattooing started with my passion for drawing and capturing fine details. Even before I began tattooing, I was always drawn to pencil sketches and charcoal work—mediums that allowed me to play with light, shadow, and texture. When I started tattooing, I found that the same skills applied perfectly to black & gray realism. It allowed me to bring a level of depth and emotion to my work that resonated with both me and my clients.
As I experimented with different styles, I quickly realized that black & gray realism gave me the freedom to tell intricate stories through each piece. I love how this style allows me to create depth and texture, whether I’m working on a portrait, a detailed animal piece, or an intricate composition of natural elements. The subtle contrasts and shading in black & gray work enable me to bring a sense of life and movement to the tattoos, making them feel almost three-dimensional on the skin.
Over time, I became more focused on perfecting this style, continuously studying anatomy, lighting, and the techniques needed to make the tattoos look as realistic as possible. It’s a style that demands precision, patience, and a keen eye for detail, which has pushed me to constantly refine my skills and elevate my work. What I love most about black & gray realism is the challenge it presents and the ability to transform a vision into something truly striking and timeless.
What’s your secret to stand out in such a competitive niche?
My secret to standing out in the competitive world of black & gray realism lies in my dedication to constant improvement and building genuine connections with my clients.
I pay close attention to every detail, ensuring that each piece is unique and tailored specifically to the person wearing it. I also believe that staying true to my own artistic vision, rather than following trends, helps me create work that feels authentic. By continuously challenging myself to refine my technique and stay inspired, I ensure that every tattoo I create reflects my passion and commitment to the craft.
What’s the process to create tattoos for your customers?
The process of creating a tattoo begins long before the needle ever touches the skin. It all starts with a conversation where I get to know my client’s vision, their story, and the feelings they want their tattoo to convey. This is a crucial step because it allows me to understand their perspective and ensures that the final piece is something they’ll connect with deeply. I encourage my clients to share their ideas, reference images, and any inspiration that helps me see their vision clearly.
From there, I take those ideas and start working on a custom design. I spend time refining the concept, balancing their vision with my artistic interpretation. Depending on the complexity, this might involve a few rounds of feedback until we reach a design that both the client and I are excited about. I want them to feel fully confident in the final artwork before we begin the actual tattooing.
What is the main source of inspiration for your tattoos?
My inspiration comes from many different sources, but the strongest influences are nature and the stories my clients bring to me. Nature offers endless beauty and complexity, from the intricate textures of animals to the delicate patterns of flowers and landscapes. I love incorporating these elements into my designs, as they bring a sense of life and movement to the tattoos.
Additionally, I find a lot of inspiration from the world of art itself—photography, sculpture, classical paintings and also other tattoo artists have helped shape my approach to realism. All of these elements come together to create tattoos that are not only visually striking but also deeply meaningful to the person wearing them.
You mentioned before that you do many guest spots. What’s your experience doing guest spots?
I’ve been fortunate to work with several studios across Europe, where I’ve done many of my guest spots. Some of my favorite places to work include studios in Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium, etc. These studios offer a unique environment where I can learn from other talented artists and share my own approach to black & gray realism.
Each guest spot is an opportunity to immerse myself in a new city, connect with different clients, and expand my creative horizons. I love the experience of stepping into a new studio and seeing how each place has its own energy and vibe. It keeps my work fresh and inspires me to continually evolve my style. Plus, it allows me to bring a little bit of Ibiza’s spirit to other places and connect with people who might not be able to travel to the island.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2024?
One of the biggest challenges of being a tattoo artist in 2024 is adapting to the fast-paced changes in the industry, especially when it comes to maintaining an online presence. Social media has become a key platform for reaching new clients, showcasing work, and building a reputation. But with so many talented artists online, it can be challenging to stand out and stay relevant. It’s a balance between creating content that captures attention while still remaining true to my artistic vision and not getting too caught up in trends.
So, how do you deal with pressure of being relevant on social media?
It s hard for me, It is challenging, but I try to focus on sharing work that I’m proud of and engaging with people who genuinely connect with it. I remind myself that it’s not about likes or followers, but about building a community that values the art I create.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The most rewarding part of being a tattoo artist is the connection I build with my clients and the ability to create something that genuinely means a lot to them. There’s a unique sense of fulfillment that comes from seeing a client’s reaction when they look in the mirror and see their finished tattoo for the first time. It’s knowing that I’ve been
able to bring their vision to life, transforming their ideas and emotions into a piece of art they’ll carry with them forever.
What has your experience been so far with participating in tattoo conventions?
Tattoo conventions have been an amazing experience. They’re a great way to meet other artists, learn new techniques, and showcase my work to a wider audience. It’s always inspiring to see so many talented people in one place.
Do you remember the first tattoo convention you ever attended?
Yes, I vividly remember my first convention. It was nerve-wracking and exciting at the same time. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it turned out to be an incredible experience. I got to meet some of my tattoo idols, and it motivated me to keep
improving myself.
What is your primary reason for attending tattoo conventions?
The main reason I attend tattoo conventions is to network with other artists and potential clients. It’s also a great way to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in the industry.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for both artists and the public?
I think conventions could offer more opportunities for collaboration and learning.
Workshops and live demonstrations are always a great way to engage both artists and the public. Also, providing more platforms for up-and-coming artists to showcase their work would be a huge improvement.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Be patient and persistent. Tattooing is an art form that takes time to master, and there will be challenges along the way. It’s important to stay dedicated, keep learning, and always be open to feedback.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
I admire artists who constantly push the boundaries of what’s possible in tattooing.
Some of my biggest influences are Thomas Carli Jarlier, Neon Judas, Miguel Montoya, Stevo Tattoo.
They inspire me to keep evolving and growing as an artist.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
One of my proudest accomplishments has been building a loyal client base and having the opportunity to travel and work in different studios worldwide. Each guest spot and collaboration feels like a new milestone in my career.
How do you balance your personal life and work?
It’s definitely a challenge, especially when traveling for guest spots, but I make it a priority to carve out time for myself. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones or simply taking a break to recharge, balance is key to staying creative and inspired.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
In the near future, I’d love to collaborate with more renowned artists. I’m also working towards creating a body of work that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in realistic tattooing.
Do you have any sponsors? If so, could you share a few words about them?
At the moment, I’m in the process of negotiating with potential sponsors. It’s an exciting step in my career, and I’m looking forward to working with companies that align with my values and vision. Once everything is finalized, I’m confident that these partnerships will help me continue to create high-quality work with the best products
available.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
I’d just like to say thank you for your support and interest in my work. Tattooing is a personal and ever-evolving journey for me, and I’m excited to see where it will take me next. Keep following your passion, and don’t be afraid to express yourself through art.
Im really hope that you would take me as a client at the Baltimore Convention in March. Your tattoos and artistry have true vision and passion.
Looking to see if you have any availability for the Baltimore Maryland Convention in March.