We are excited to share this exclusive interview with Gustavo BulldogTattoo, based in Destin, Florida! With over 30 years of experience, Gustavo has become a well-respected figure in the tattoo world, renowned for his terrific black and grey realism. Join us as we delve into his journey, techniques, and what keeps him passionate about his craft.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
Hey! I’m Gustavo BulldogTattoo, a tattoo artist specializing in black and grey realism, with over 30 years of experience. I travel frequently across Europe and the Americas, working in different studios, attending conventions, and constantly evolving my craft.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
It all started when I was a kid, I remember seeing a tattoo on a friend of my father’s, and I was amazed that someone could have a drawing on their skin that didn’t wash away. That moment stuck with me, and I think it sparked my interest in tattooing.
At what point in your life, did you become a professional tattoo artist?
I started tattooing as a teenager, but it became my full-time profession in my early twenties. Over the years, I dedicated myself to perfecting my skills, traveling, and learning from the best in the industry.
Where are you currently based?
I’m currently based in Destin, Florida, but I travel extensively, working as a guest artist across Europe and the Americas.
Having been active in tattooing for over 30 years, how do you perceive the tattoo scene these days?
The tattoo scene is thriving, there’s more appreciation for high-quality work, and artists are constantly pushing boundaries. With social media and conventions, there’s more exposure and connection than ever, allowing the industry to grow globally.
How would you define your current tattoo style and how did you end up focusing on it?
My style is mainly black and grey realism, but I also explore blackwork and dark bio. I was always drawn to detail, depth, and creating lifelike images on skin. Over the years, I refined my technique by studying light, shadow, and texture, which naturally led me to specialize in realism.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
It starts with a conversation, I want to understand their vision, ideas, and the meaning behind the tattoo. That’s why I always ask the client for ideas, reference images and then I take pictures, and start creation of a design tailored to their body flow, ensuring it fits perfectly. Once we finalize the concept, I prepare the stencil, set up my workstation, and focus on bringing the design to life with precision and depth.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
The industry is more competitive than ever, and with AI, new technologies, and social media constantly evolving, staying relevant and innovative is a challenge. Also, navigating the legal side, like visas and regulations, can be tough for traveling artists.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
Creating art that becomes part of someone’s life forever is an incredible feeling. Seeing a client’s reaction when they look at their tattoo for the first time makes all the hard work worth it. Plus, traveling, meeting amazing artists, and constantly learning keeps the passion alive.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
Tattoo conventions have been a huge part of my journey. They’ve given me the chance to showcase my work, connect with artists from around the world, and stay up to date with new techniques and trends. Every convention is a learning experience and an opportunity to push my skills further.
Did you ever participate in any tattoo contest?
Yes, I’ve participated in several tattoo contests over the years. Winning or not, it’s always a great way to challenge myself, get feedback from top artists, and gain more exposure.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
My main reason is to connect with fellow artists, clients, and brands. It’s also a great way to stay inspired, learn new techniques, and expand my network for future guest spots and collaborations.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for the artists and the public?
For artists, better lighting, more comfortable setups, would make a big difference. For the public, I think more interactive experiences, and different shows, and opportunities to engage with artists beyond just getting tattooed would add value.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
There are so many great ones, but I’d say The All Stars Tattoo Convention in Miami, Florida, because of its organization, the level of artists it brings together, and the overall energy, and the great shows and performances. The best conventions are the ones where you feel inspired and challenged at the same time.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Be patient and stay humble. Learn the fundamentals, respect the craft, and its history, and never stop improving. Find a good mentor, put in the work, and don’t rush the process, tattooing is a lifelong journey, not a quick job.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
There are many artists who have shaped the tattoo industry and left a lasting impact. Filip Leu is a legend in Japanese-style tattooing, known for his innovative approach and artistic mastery. Don Ed Hardy helped bring tattooing into the world of fine art and popular culture, changing the way people perceive the craft. Paul Booth revolutionized black and grey tattooing with his dark, surreal imagery, inspiring countless artists worldwide. Horiyoshi III, master of traditional Japanese Irezumi, setting the standard for large-scale, detailed body suits.
Bob Tyrrell has played a key role in pushing the boundaries of black and grey realism, refining techniques that many artists use today.
Thanks to my work, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and learning from many of my references and favorite artists like Robert Hernandez, Victor Portugal, Stefano Alcantara, and many others!
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
For me, the greatest accomplishment is seeing my clients truly happy and grateful for their tattoos. Knowing that my work becomes a meaningful part of their lives is incredibly rewarding. Tattooing has also given me the opportunity to travel, meet amazing people, and experience different cultures and ways of thinking. This constant exposure to new perspectives has helped me grow both as an artist and as a person.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I never stop learning. Whether it’s through traveling, attending conventions, collaborating with other artists, or experimenting with new techniques, I’m always looking for ways to evolve. Staying inspired and open-minded is key.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
Yes, I love drawing and painting, especially in black and grey. It helps me refine my technique and translate new ideas into tattoo designs. Art has always been a big part of my life, and I enjoy exploring different mediums.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
I want to continue growing as an artist, collaborating with top studios, and expanding my presence at major conventions.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Yes, I work with sponsors that provide tattoo-related materials and services. For me, sponsorships are about mutual benefit, I only collaborate with brands whose products I genuinely trust and use in my daily work. Since I travel constantly and interact with many artists worldwide, I have the opportunity to promote high-quality products to a broad network. My goal is to share the best tools and innovations with fellow artists while maintaining the highest standards in my own work.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
Tattooing is more than just ink on skin, it’s a lifelong commitment to growth, creativity, and self-expression. Whether you’re an artist or a collector, always seek quality, passion, and authenticity in every piece. And most importantly, never stop learning!
Es un trabajo muy impresionante ❤️❤️
I really love his art. An amazing tattoo artist, undoubtedly.