We are glad to present today, David from Slovenia. An extremely talented tattoo artists, focusing on color realism and surrealism, with over 11 years of experience. His journey has been deeply influenced by his early exposure to art and his father’s being as a tattoo artist. In this conversation, David discusses the evolution of his style, the value of trust between artist and client, and why maintaining love and purpose helps sustain his passion.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
I’m David and I come from Slovenia. I’ve been drawing since I was a child. All my life I admired all kinds of art, and 10 years ago I decided to become a tattoo artist. I always practiced on clients, and I have a deep respect for the trust they gave me from the beginning. Probably because my father was also a tattoo artist, and people around my town knew him.
So you have always been into tattooing since an early age?
Yes, through my love for drawing and art, and having my father as a tattoo artist, really made it part of my environment growing up.
At what point in your life, you decided to became a professional tattoo artist?
I’ve been tattooing for around 11 years. A few years into tattooing black and grey, I realized I wanted to work with color too. So I traveled to a seminar in Essen by VAL Tattoo (Valentina Riabova), bought some colors, and did my first big color tattoo at a convention in Slovenia.
How do you balance creativity with the client’s personal vision?
For big projects, I definitely want to know more about the client where we can go with crazy ideas. It always comes down to how much freedom the client gives us. If they’re open, then we can create something truly great. The best way to get a good sleeve is for the client to give us a theme, and that’s all.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Slovenia these days?
The tattoo scene in Slovenia is a bit old-fashioned. It’s a lot of typical black and grey designs like lions, roses, watches. Around 85% of clients still want black and grey. But the reason is mostly technical: in the past, color tattoos didn’t hold well, so people believe colors fade fast. That’s a wrong belief. In my opinion, color tattoos are more intense and last even longer than black and grey.
How would you define your current tattoo style and how did you end up focusing on it?
My style is color realism and surrealism. I also do black and grey realism, but I prefer working with color.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
It starts with getting to know the client and understanding their idea. I try to see how far we can go with the design and whether the client is willing to give us creative freedom. When they do, we usually end up with a much stronger final piece.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
It’s no longer just about how original or skilled you are with your tattoos. Now it’s more about being good at posting, making reels, marketing yourself on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok — often in crazy or even stupid ways. That makes me sad. I’m not that kind of person. I focus on the quality of my tattoos and making sure my clients are happy when they leave the studio.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
Creating your unique piece of art and sharing that energy with your clients. That’s everything.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
Tattoo conventions are great. We love visiting them and working at them too. We’ve been to many and received quite a few awards, from best of colors to best of show, even from the judge’s side. Tattoo contests are very familiar to us. But even more than the awards, it’s about creating something special and unique.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
To create something unique, meet people, and keep pushing our art. It’s not about the reward, it’s about sharing your work with others.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for the artists and the public?
Tattoo conventions are turning more into marketplaces for tattoo companies to push products. I believe the artists must remain the main focus of these events.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
I don’t have a specific favorite. Every convention brings a different experience. And life is about collecting experiences.
What advice would you give to first-time artists attending or working at a convention?
Honestly, if someone told me I had to start over with the old machines and coil needles, I’d say no. But now, with modern gear, comfortable machines, precise cartridges, better colors, it’s much easier to learn. Also, young artists now have access to so much knowledge online.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
It’s easier now to start, but it still requires dedication. Learn to draw first. Focus on your foundation. And respect your clients — always.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
I don’t have idols. I just focus on my work and my path. There are many great artists, but not everyone understands that art comes from the universal field of consciousness. Some artists are too ego-driven. I don’t mind. I care about myself and my wife. Together we are one heart, one love, and one art.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
Enjoying my work. When I’m working on a big project and a 10-hour session flies by like nothing, that’s how I know my heart beats for this art.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I keep creating and enjoying the process. That alone fuels me.
What’s the most meaningful feedback you’ve ever received from a client?
When they feel truly seen in the tattoo, or when they come back years later with the same joy as the day they got it, that’s priceless.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
My goal is to stay healthy and make art until I die.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Yes, we’re proudly sponsored by @xtremetattooink. We’re very grateful for that.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
Just a big thank you for reading. And remember, whatever you do. Do it from the heart.
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