Meet the wonderful Lilou, an exceptional tattoo artist originally from Nantes, now based in Tournai, Belgium, where she runs her own studio, Orbe Noire. With nearly a decade of experience, Lilou has cultivated a distinctive universe revolving around ornamental, graphic, and blackwork tattooing. Her true passion lies in large-scale, immersive projects that flow across the body, crafted with minimalist tools and executed based on a strong connection with the clients and their bodies.
Lilou values the collaborative spirit, viewing tattooing as a profound act of exchange and trust between two people. Her joyful and sincere nature shines through in both her work and interactions. Committed to pushing creative limits, she embraces every tattoo as a meaningful journey of human interaction and personal empowerment. Join Lilou as she opens the doors to a world of becoming, learning and exchange.
How would you like to introduce yourself?
My name is Lilou, I’m from Nantes. I’ve been a tattoo artist for almost 10 years and I’m currently living in Belgium, where I run my own tattoo studio based in Tournai. Over time, I’ve developed a universe around ornamental, graphic, and blackwork tattooing. What I love most today are large-scale projects that have a profound impact on the entire body, created with the fewest tools possible. Most of the time, I try to focus, for example, on a single cup of black ink. I particularly enjoy working on multi-day projects, pushing my own limits as well as those of my clients and, most importantly, doing it together: creating tailored projects with them, for them.
I am a joyful and sincere person, and I believe this shows in the way I work as well as in the encounters I have thanks to this craft. To me, tattooing is, above all, a story of exchange, sharing, and mutual trust. This is what nourishes me and gives me the desire to keep going, again and again, after all these years.
Where can your customers find you? Please specify a city and studio.
In Belgium, in the city of Tournai, just 20 minutes from Lille and the French border, at a studio called Orbe Noire, where I work with two partners.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Belgium these days?
Tattooing in Belgium today has become highly democratized, both among the general public and professionals. As a result, there are now many artists practicing, which is great because it brings a broader variety of styles, techniques, and approaches, helping the industry grow in terms of quality and aesthetics. On the other hand, this also increases the artist-to-client ratio. With more professionals, the balance of supply and demand shifts, meaning you either have to be more competitive in terms of skill or in terms of price. This naturally opens up a broader conversation about pricing and quality.
How would you define yourself in one word?
Wholehearted.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
Honestly, it started back in my teenage years. When I was an adolescent, I discovered the world of tattoos through Magazines and by seeing them on others. It opened up a whole new universe that fascinated me, especially because tattoos aren’t accessible until adulthood. That created a sense of anticipation, almost like a milestone in life, and I think I’ve always been drawn to that idea of becoming an adult. Later on, my fascination grew even more through my former partner, who was a tattoo artist. Watching him work, I loved not only the practice itself but also the way he connected with his clients and engaged with their bodies.
What does tattooing mean to you personally?
For me, tattooing is about wanting, at least at one moment in life, to stop time. Above all, it’s about reclaiming your body and using it consciously, taking responsibility for it. It’s also a genuine moment of sharing and human connection, a very physical and authentic form of communication. And when I do my job well, it even becomes a moment of communion.
At what point in your life did you decide to become a professional tattoo artist?
In 2015, I decided to pursue a career in tattooing, and by 2016, I had become a tattoo artist. I made that choice partly as a challenge to myself, but also out of a desire to be independent, capable, and responsible. Above all, it was driven by my wish to connect with people through artistic practice and meaningful communication with my clients.
How did your family react when you started a career in tattooing?
When I told them I wanted to become a tattoo artist, their first reaction was to wonder how I could make a living in this field. They were a bit worried for me, but it wasn’t the first time I had surprised them with my choices. Very quickly, though, they discovered the tattoo world, came to see me, and showed a lot of curiosity and open-mindedness. Today, they’re actually my biggest fans. They’ve always supported me despite their initial doubts.
Did you go through an apprenticeship? How was that experience?
Yes, I did an apprenticeship that lasted over five years, as I stayed for a long time with the person who trained me. It was a long process, but at the same time, I’ve always had the kind of personality that wanted to learn a lot on my own and be independent. So it was a rather quiet apprenticeship, based on a lot of observation, I would watch carefully, then go and practice on my own. I had the chance to start practicing quite quickly, always being transparent with my clients that I was still an apprentice, and they trusted me. That trust really allowed me to gain confidence and learn faster. Honestly, it was a wonderful experience, and the way I was trained is something I would recommend to anyone.
What did your first tattoo look like?
I did it on the person who trained me, it was a crow wearing a top hat. Honestly, it still looks pretty cool today, and to be fair, it even turned out better than the next few tattoos I did afterwards. Maybe it was beginner’s luck, but my very first tattoo actually came out better than some of the ones that followed, and it took me a little while to surpass it.
Do you usually do guest spots? If yes, what’s your experience in doing them?
I have done guest spots, but these days I don’t do them very often because of my family situation and the fact that I run my own studio. It’s not always easy for me to leave whenever I want, so I tend to stay in my shop most of the time. That said, it’s an experience I truly loved, and I’d like to do more of it again in the future. I think guest spots are always a great way to exchange, to keep learning, and honestly, one week as a guest can feel like a month of progress compared to staying only in your own studio.
As a Tattoo Artist, what does your daily working routine look like?
Well, I actually have two routines. When I have my children, I start the day by waking up, taking care of them, dropping them off at school, and then taking a little time for myself. That’s usually when I have breakfast, maybe squeeze in some exercise if I can, then take a shower before heading to the studio. Once I arrive at the shop, my ritual is to pause briefly with my client at the entrance. We sit down and talk, they remind me of what we’re going to do, explain a bit about what they want, how they want it, and in what form. It’s like a little introduction, a good warm-up, and also a way to get to know each other better before we get into the real work.
What is one surprising aspect of being a tattoo artist?
It’s a profession that can be polarizing, yet it touches so many people. Everyone has an opinion about tattoos, whether they love them or not, and that creates a kind of fascination, because very few people are truly indifferent. Another surprising aspect is the relationship with the body: it’s neither medical nor purely aesthetic, but deeply human. There’s this unique mix of intimacy and superficiality, and I really love the idea of combining those two worlds.
How do you determine the price of a tattoo?
It’s quite complex. It depends on the client’s request, the amount of time I’ll need to spend on it, and the overall complexity of the project.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Definitely communication and social media. I didn’t choose this profession for that side of the job. Of course, it’s not mandatory, but if you want to continue growing, be seen, and share your work with a broader audience, communication has become just as crucial as the tattooing itself. The hardest part is finding your niche as a tattoo artist while also being expected to establish your presence as an influencer or Instagrammer.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The satisfaction of my clients and their gratitude, but above all, their trust. Knowing that I’ve honored that trust and given them a good reason to have placed it in me is the most rewarding part.
What tools and machines do you prefer to use?
At the moment, I use the Cheyenne Pen. I’m not particularly attached to this specific machine, but I tend to stick with a tool once I start using it. I like to really get to know it, push it to its limits, and master it before moving on. Perhaps it’s also a matter of reluctance to switch, but for now, it works well for me.
What’s your number one aftercare advice for clients?
My top recommendation is to really listen to your body. The most important thing right after the session is to clean your tattoo carefully within the first few hours. Beyond that, follow the usual aftercare routine, but always pay attention to how your body reacts. Everyone’s skin and healing process are different. Once you’ve ensured the tattoo and the wound are kept clean, the rest is simply about applying the basics consistently.
How would you define your current tattoo style, and how did you end up focusing on it?
It took me a long time to find my current style, and in a way, it defined itself naturally. Initially, I was more focused on doing what clients asked for rather than developing my own style. What I loved most was making people happy with the tattoos they wanted. My style really started to emerge when one client asked me to create something in my style, gave me complete freedom, and trusted me entirely.
That experience motivated me to push further into what I personally enjoy. Today, I describe my work as blackwork with ornamental influences, inspired by many cultures, from Chinese art to tribal tattoos. What excites me most are large-scale pieces that flow across the body without being limited to just a shoulder or a leg. I love it when a tattoo takes up space and involves multiple areas of the body, because it also involves a stronger emotional commitment from the client. My work is very organic, often with curves and counter-curves, and I enjoy playing with depth and different layers on the body.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
My process is always the same: I start by meeting the client and having a conversation about what they like, their tastes, references, ideas, and inspirations. These can be photos, sculptures, songs, or even words. Through this exchange, I get to know them and understand their vision. From there, we create the project together, directly in front of them. What I love most is working side by side so that we can adjust the design at any moment. That way, the creation truly happens in real time, as a moment of dialogue, exchange, and collaboration.
How do you stay creatively inspired?
For me, it’s simple; my inspiration comes from my clients. Since I meet different people every day, I’m constantly inspired by their individuality.
Are there any tattoo styles you’d like to explore more?
Yes, and I actually do it every day. With each client, I often bring new ideas and suggest things they might not have considered. So in a way, I’m always exploring. I wouldn’t say there’s one specific style I want to focus on, but I’m very curious by nature, and I love to keep experimenting with new elements, especially when clients allow me to take them on that journey.
What’s the most underrated tattoo style?
I think there are many. But if a style is underrated, maybe that’s just part of its place in the tattoo world. Honestly, I don’t have a specific answer.
What’s the most overrated tattoo style?
I do have an opinion, but I wouldn’t share it publicly on social media.
Are there any tattoos you prefer not to do?
Yes, anything written in a language I don’t understand. I don’t want to tattoo something I can’t read or translate myself. Beyond that, it’s less about the design and more about the feeling. If I sense that the person doesn’t fully trust me or isn’t truly aligned with their project, I prefer not to tattoo them. In those cases, there’s a higher chance they’ll regret it later, because their emotional commitment doesn’t match the permanence of the tattoo.
As a Tattoo Artist, what kind of tattoo ethics is really important to you?
The relationship with the body, making sure the tattoo truly integrates with the person who wears it.
Being a successful tattoo artist requires many different skills. What’s your favorite way to keep learning?
Practicing every day. Honestly, if I could, I’d attend as many seminars as possible with other tattoo artists; that’s something that really pushes growth. I also learn a lot at conventions, as you can exchange ideas with other artists, challenge yourself, and make significant progress in a short time.
Do you like to teach or mentor upcoming artists?
[sighs] Yes, I do enjoy it, but at the same time, I’m not sure how qualified I am. It’s a lot of pressure.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received to improve your tattooing technique?
“Never listen to advice.” That’s the advice I was given. What it means is that there isn’t just one right technique, there are many. You have to understand it, try it, and interpret it for yourself. Someone can explain a technique to you for ten years, but until you go through those three steps, you might never be able to apply it, and it might not even be the right fit for you.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I’m not always at the top, and I don’t think it’s possible to always be at the top.
What do you think separates a good tattoo artist from a great one?
Curiosity and the ability to make others truly understand your work. And beyond that, it’s about letting your work speak for itself. I think that’s what makes an artist truly great when their art communicates on its own.
How do you feel about the growing acceptance of tattoos in society?
I think it’s really great, it opens up the industry, allowing many different people to bring their own skills and techniques. It enriches the culture, increases diversity, and expands future possibilities.
What’s the biggest misconception that customers may have about tattoos?
Healing, for one, has been overly dramatized, then completely ignored, and then dramatized again. But above all, pain. For some people, it’s very underestimated, while for others, it’s completely overestimated. In reality, it’s something deeply personal that can’t be generalized, because everyone experiences it differently.
What’s the biggest trend in tattooing you have noticed in the last 5 years?
From an artist’s perspective, realism has had a big wave of popularity, as well as tribal styles. From the client’s side, a major trend has been turning what were once large, meaningful, impactful tattoos into very small tattoos, which often lose much of their sense, value, and aesthetic power.
What’s your view on the rise of AI in tattooing?
I think it’s like AI in the world in general; for some, it will have a huge impact, and for others, not so much. It offers as many possibilities and new opportunities as it might destroy. It already has a daily impact on many tattooers: for some, it’s a useful tool; for others, it feels like a threat. But I believe that artists who are truly aligned with their work and their process won’t see it as a danger for them; it will just be another tool, whether complementary or separate.
What would you change about the tattoo industry?
Education, both for clients and for tattooers. I would change the way people think about aesthetics and self-image. And for tattoo artists, I’d like to see proper training and education, certified programs that protect both the profession and the clients.
Do you work on other projects within the tattoo industry?
Not at the moment, but there are things in the works.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
I used to practice photography, sculpture, object design, and music. Today, I’m almost entirely dedicated to tattooing, but other artistic projects will come in the future.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
All the tattooers I respect, and there are many. Anyone who is creative and productive inspires me.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I’ve attended many tattoo conventions, and I absolutely love them. For me, they’re real moments of sharing and exchange but also true challenges. I like to push myself at conventions with large or highly technical pieces, often setting goals for myself in terms of time or outcome. It becomes a battle with myself, and together with my client, we push through to create something unique and, hopefully, memorable.
How do you usually prepare for a tattoo convention?
Honestly, most of the time I prepare at the last minute, relying heavily on instinct. I get my equipment ready, bring my smile, and off we go.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
To meet other tattooers, share a special moment with my client, and also connect with new clients to get direct feedback and perspectives. In the beginning, I attended conventions mainly to get my name out there and find my place in the industry.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
Lille Tattoo Convention and Épinal mainly, because of the artist selection, the warm welcome, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with artists who genuinely enjoy sharing.
Have you ever had the opportunity to participate in any tattoo contests? You are welcome to specify your awards.
I’ve participated in many contests and have been lucky enough to win quite a few awards too many to list them all. But one highlight for me was winning 3rd place in the “Best Graphic” category at the Épinal Convention. Standing on the podium next to artists I admired was an extraordinary and defining moment in my career. I hope to keep competing at higher-level contests and aim for the top spots.
Do you collect tattoos from artists you meet at conventions?
Not very often. I prefer having large, cohesive pieces on my body. But I do seek out artists whose work I admire, and I don’t mind traveling across the country to get tattooed by them.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for both artists and the public?
Conventions are unique because they create a less formal atmosphere than a studio, which makes people feel more at ease. They allow spontaneous encounters with artists you might not have discovered online, and that works both ways for artists to get exposure and for clients to discover new styles. They also help educate the general public about the diversity of the tattoo world.
Was there any event in particular that really boosted your career?
Yes, conventions like Toxcitink in Liège, Lille Tattoo Convention, and Épinal were real milestones for me. More recently, Lyon and Nantes have become important conventions in our region of France, helping open doors into the wider European scene. And Barcelona was absolutely amazing, it allowed me to meet even more people and discover new perspectives.
Is there any tattoo that you have created in your career that you are particularly proud of?
Yes, absolutely. I mentioned earlier the client who gave me complete trust and really allowed me to find my style. I’ve now tattooed almost their entire body, and every piece I’ve done for them has given me confidence, visibility, and direction in my career. With this client, I also learned to work fully freehand, which has since become a central focus of my work. One piece in particular, a large chrysanthemum I created over two days at a convention, was truly extraordinary and marked a turning point that shaped the career I have today.
What is your greatest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
Having more and more clients who come to me specifically to create fully custom projects, trusting me to express who I am through their tattoos. That’s both extraordinary and terrifying at the same time. Another huge accomplishment is when clients allow me to work on entire sections of their body or even their whole body. Filling 80% or more of someone’s body with my work is an incredible achievement. But above all, my greatest accomplishment is seeing my clients proud and happy with their tattoos, even years later. That satisfaction is priceless.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Just go for it, but work hard. Don’t listen too much to others; listen to yourself. I think that’s the best advice I could give.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
To keep going the way I am now, I am reaching the point where I can do full freehand on all of my pieces, continuing to have fun, to progress, and to love what I do.
What legacy do you want to leave as a tattoo artist?
I hope to leave not only an aesthetic mark but also the memory of a moment. I want people who got tattooed by me to remember the experience itself as something just as extraordinary as the piece they carry on their skin. That’s truly my ultimate goal.
To close this awesome interview, what’s your last message to our readers?
Dream, believe, go for it and never let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do. Just do it.
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