Argentinian tattoo artist Lucas Espeche’s creations are fueled by love for high-impact abstract surrealism & realism, a passion for constant growth, and the curiosity to travel & learn. With 12 years of experience rooted in Merlo, Lucas brings a unique blend of clarity, detail, and imaginative freedom to his tattoos. The artist’s pieces stand out through intricate compositions, vibrant colors and a fascinating dedication to clarity & details. He transforms his clients’ ideas into powerful, original pieces inspired by photography, street art, and nature – for Lucas, art is everywhere.
Currently guesting at top studios across North America while running his own studio back home, Lucas balances travel and rootedness while learning from fellow artists and embracing the evolving tattoo scene. This interview reveals a thoughtful artist who views tattooing not just as a profession, but as a life filled with impact and connection.
How would you like to introduce yourself?
I’m Lucas Espeche, a professional tattoo artist from Argentina. I started my career 12 years ago in Merlo, San Luis, Argentina – today, I run a studio Wheako in the same city. I specialize in high-impact abstract surrealism and realism, both in color and black & grey, though I prefer color.
Where can customers find you?
Currently, I’m guesting at well-known studios across North America and attending conventions. I’m planning to settle down soon, we’ll see where. You can always find me through my Instagram profile @lucas_espeche_tattoo, where I publish in advance where I’ll be working.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Argentina these days?
In Argentina, there’s an incredible amount of talent. I honestly believe some of the best artists in the world are there. However, it’s very challenging to grow due to the current economic situation. Sometimes seeking new opportunities requires sacrifices… in my case, traveling.
How would you describe yourself in one word?
Self-demanding.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
Nowadays, a lot of my inspiration comes from photography and what I see in the streets, the sky, and murals – everything is art. But at the beginning, what fascinated me most about tattoos was how a piece of art could have even more life than it would on a canvas or a wall… because it’s on a person. I love that.
What does tattooing mean to you personally?
It’s life, my life. Tattooing gave me friends, family, and so many other good things, besides allowing me to work in what I love.
How did your family react when you started a career in tattooing?
I had unconditional support from my family. My mom and brother, who gifted me my first tattoo bed to start with, and my partner, who always pushed me forward. This moment is theirs as much as mine.
What did your first tattoo look like?
Bad, hahaha. Nothing else to say.
Do you usually do guest spots?
Yes, I started this new chapter of my career in Montreal, Canada. Guest spots really help you grow, you meet new people, see other artists and techniques, and that inevitably pushes you to improve. Of course, there are positives and negatives, but I definitely recommend taking on guest spots.
As a tattoo artist, what does your daily routine look like?
I try to keep it simple and practical. With the help of my wife, who manages me, I focus on designing, tattooing, and photographing my work, while also seeking new challenges in my projects.
What is one surprising aspect of being a tattoo artist?
That everything you do is always connected to tattooing, it’s impossible to disconnect. My friends, family, clothes, paintings… Everything is always tattoo-related.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
There’s a lot of talent in the tattoo world today. The hardest part is staying active and relevant in every aspect: tattooing, marketing, photography, and social media. It’s a lot for a tattoo artist, but that’s where the industry stands now.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
That I get to work in what I love, so basically, I don’t work, I live.
How would you define your tattoo style and how do you focus on it?
My style is high-impact. I love detail, but my focus is always on impact clarity and readability. I don’t like being too structured, that’s why I chose surrealism: I like to imagine. My main inspiration today comes from the client; I take their idea but transform it into my style. That’s the challenge: making the client’s idea into something unique, original, and powerful.
How do you stay creatively inspired?
As I said before, I let the client’s idea inspire me and then adapt it to my style after a few coffees and getting to know them better. Of course, I’m a visual consumer of art, tattoos, and photography. That gives me tools when it’s time to design.
Are there any tattoo styles you’d like to explore more?
I’m always mixing styles in my work, which leads me to explore and study a little bit of each one.
Do you have sponsors?
Yes, JConly Vetar. They’ve been trusting and supporting my career for almost three years now with their cartridges, second skin, and now their machines. I’m very grateful.
As a tattoo artist, what kind of ethics are really important for you?
Being humble and human above everything else. Always respecting the profession and the client, being responsible both with hygiene and knowing the limits of each professional’s skill.
Being a successful tattoo artist requires many skills. What’s your favorite way to keep learning?
Conventions and traveling, sharing with other artists is always valuable. But painting is one of my favorites too, even if I don’t always have time for it.
Do you like to teach or mentor upcoming artists?
Nobody should take knowledge to the grave, haha. Just like I love learning, I also love teaching.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
It’s not easy. Honestly, I never felt like I was at the top and I don’t think I’d like to because that hunger to improve would disappear.
What do you think separates good tattoo artists from great tattoo artists?
Professionalism, and the way you approach tattooing. That’s it.
How do you feel about the growing acceptance of tattoos in society?
It’s a good thing, of course. Everyone wants tattoos nowadays, and thanks to social media, it’s easier for people to discover all the different styles.
What’s the biggest misconception that customers may have about tattoos?
That large tattoos can be done quickly, without sacrifice. Much of this is our fault as artists, because of what’s shown on social media. That sometimes leads to customers having wrong expectations, which makes the sale more challenging.
What’s your view on the rise of AI?
I think any tool that helps with what we already know how to do is welcome. But it shouldn’t replace your work.
What would you change about the tattoo industry?
I’d like to see more regulation. There are many new artists who don’t respect hygiene or clients, and I think the industry should focus more on this issue.
What’s your experience with tattoo conventions?
I’ve participated in many, not always with positive results in terms of awards, but I’m always happy to meet new people and share a space where everyone loves the same thing.
What’s your primary reason to attend a convention?
To learn, fulfil responsibilities with sponsors, and stay active.
Have you ever participated in tattoo contests?
Yes, every time I attend conventions, I participate. I’ve won several awards, but one of the most memorable moments was in my home province, where I won four prizes with the same tattoo, something I never expected.
How do you think conventions improve artists and the public?
Conventions provide real knowledge, not everything, but they help educate people about our world. For artists, conventions motivate us and help us learn.
Is there any tattoo you are proud of?
Yes, a futuristic double-face piece, it marked a turning point in the way I work.
What are your biggest accomplishments as a tattoo artist?
Doing what I love while also having time to enjoy my family. I feel like I’m outside the system, haha.
What’s your biggest advice to new artists?
It’s going to be hard, frustrating, and a constant learning process. But if you love it and you’re not doing it just for the money, then give it 100% of your dedication.
What are your goals or dreams for the future?
I want to keep growing as an artist and attend the biggest conventions. One of my goals is to participate in at least one convention on every continent in a single year.
What legacy do you want to leave?
That my style becomes a reference in the future, even if only for a while, haha.
To close this awesome interview, what’s your last message to our readers?
First of all, thank you, WTE, for this opportunity. It’s a huge honor for my career. Thanks also to everyone who surrounds and supports me. And to my clients and future clients, thank you for choosing me. For me, it’s always an honor and a challenge.
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