We are very pleased to share with you today an exclusive interview with Roman Vayner, a tattoo artist from Russia. Throughout his tattooing career, which began in 2008, Roman has developed a unique style that draws inspiration from both reality and pop culture. Tattooing, as you will learn in the interview, is both a career choice and a lifestyle choice. And we couldn’t agree with him more about his down to earth perspective!
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
Hi everyone, my name is Roman Vayner. I’ve been tattooing since 2008 even though I look young, in the tattoo industry, I’m already a dinosaur. I specialize in realism and love mixing different themes from movies, music, and pop culture.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
My passion started at 13 when I saw a tattoo convention on TV. Heavy music also had a huge influence on me, especially nu metal from back in the day, special thanks to Fred Durst for that!
At what point in your life did you become a professional tattoo artist?
I started out working from home my first year, but thanks to having pro equipment, I soon moved into a proper studio. By 2009, I was fully immersed in the professional tattoo scene.
How do you balance creativity with the client’s personal vision?
Always stay open to your clients. Don’t be a selfish asshole and people will naturally want your creative tattoos.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Russia these days?
I’m so thrilled to be part of Russia’s tattoo scene. Every city has true professionals, and the fierce competition keeps me pushing forward.
How would you define your current tattoo style and how did you end up focusing on it?
I am inspired by pop culture, but also by everything that surrounds me. I can draw a picture of an old abandoned house and at some point get a tattoo based on this picture. It’s really cool!
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
Nothing special. The best thing is to start work in the morning with a fresh head, having had a good night’s sleep beforehand. I work quickly, which allows clients to suffer less. I always create a design a few days before because I have a big booking schedule for a month or two. Most clients trust me and I really appreciate that.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
The hardest thing is to keep up with internet trends when you’re almost 40 but I keep myself in shape and constantly work on development.
What’s a tattoo project that challenged your skills the most?
The most difficult thing is to make a portrait of a relative or a child because it is very important for the client. Sometimes I specially take pictures by myself with the light and angle I need.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I had a break of almost ten years without conventions. Now I try to visit new conventions in different cities of Russia. I am very happy to meet new talented artists. I periodically appear at festivals in Europe and I really want to visit Asian festivals.
Did you ever participate at any tattoo contest?
Of course, I had a lot of experience in the past and now I have a second wind.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
New people, new experience, and new emotions.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for the artists and the public?
I think there should be more entertainment for visitors, especially for children. More and more often, whole families come to conventions.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
In the city of Krasnoyarsk (Russia, Siberia) in 2024, it was their first festival and it was perfect. The organization was at the highest level, the location was incredibly convenient, the best food and the best beer. At the end, there was a powerful rock concert.
What advice would you give to first-time artists attending or working at a convention?
Enjoy the festival, meet new people and don’t be shy to ask lots of questions to professional artists.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Work, work and work again. No time to cry. Spend all your energy on development.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
Andrey Kolbasin, Mashkow, характер_не_сахар (Sergey), Den Yakovlev.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
I live in a small town in northwest Russia and every day I find people doing bright, unusual work. I’m a damn wizard.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I don’t admit weakness. I work six days a week and after work I paint. I always keep myself in good shape and most importantly, tattoos are my way of life.
What’s the most meaningful feedback you’ve ever received from a client?
A satisfied customer who wants even more after their first tattoo.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
I want to visit festivals in the States, but it’s not easy now. And I want to paint a huge picture several meters long.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
A new brand from Russia: TattooSupport. I am proud that the industry is growing in our country. New products and new inks are appearing.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
Love art as well as tattoos. Go to museums, experiment, change styles, and first of all, listen to yourself. And love your mom.
Dear Roman, I think your feedback about entertainment for kids is so valuable. We want to go as a family but always hesitate as we think kids will be bored. I hope organizers will see your feedback.