Meet Sandra Daukshta, an extremely talented tattoo artist from Riga, Latvia, whose distinctive blend of colour realism and illustrative designs has earned her a spot among the most celebrated tattoo artists in the tattoo industry. Sandra’s creative, bold, and intricate tattoos have captured the hearts of tattoo lovers worldwide. Her journey into tattooing has been driven by a lifelong love for art, and she continues to push boundaries, creating tattoos that not only stand the test of time but also hold deep personal meaning for her clients. Let’s dive deeper into her artistic process and inspirations with this exclusive interview.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
My name is Sandra Daukshta and I am from Latvia, Riga. I’m a tattoo artist specializing in colour tattoos. And my work focuses on creating illustrative but still realistic tattoos. Art has always been my passion, and tattooing allows me to bring that passion to life on skin.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
Since childhood I have been drawing and been interested in art. As a teen, I started to notice tattoos on musicians on TV. As in my country, it was rare to see people on the street wearing tattoos, here people were more conservative. I found that tattoos look beautiful and are a great way to express yourself. But what fascinated me about tattoos is their permanence and personal significance. Unlike other forms of art, tattoos become a part of someone’s identity. Seeing how tattoos can transform and empower people inspired me to pursue this career.
How and when did you start tattooing?
I got my first tattoo machine when I was 15 years old, it was 18 years ago. My journey began tattooing at home, where I made insignificant progress because I tattooed very rarely. After graduating school and gathering enough money for proper tattoo equipment, I got an apprenticeship where I learned the fundamentals of tattooing and tried out different styles. Over time, I developed my own artistic approach and refined my technique.
Where are you based?
I am currently based in Riga, Latvia, where I work at a private tattoo studio “Inside Tattoo Studio”, or as a traveling artist doing guest spots in different countries.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in your country these days?
The tattoo scene in Latvia is thriving. There’s a growing appreciation for high-quality, custom tattoo work, and more people are recognizing tattooing as a true art form. Years ago I couldn’t imagine people here would be so interested in tattoos. Nowadays, I see many people on the street wearing them and appreciating tattoos on other people. Still, there is a conservative part of society that doesn’t accept that kind of art, but I guess you can find people like that in any country.
How would you define your tattoo style?
I specialize in colour tattoos, focusing on contrast and bold colour works. My goal is to create designs that are both realistic and structurally simple to ensure images’ longevity on the skin. So I could say my tattoos are illustrated realism.
What kind of tattoo projects do you like to do the most?
I love working on large-scale pieces that allow me to create storytelling within the design. Whether it’s a full sleeve, a back piece, or a big piece on the thigh, for example, I enjoy projects where I can fully express my creativity while also bringing the client’s vision to life. Of course, my favourite tattoos are the ones where the client gives me full freedom on the design. It’s a big honour when a person trusts my vision and wants to wear art created by me.
What’s the main source of inspiration for your tattoos?
I find inspiration in many places—fine art, nature, photography, and even emotions. I also take inspiration from my clients’ ideas and experiences, making tattoos a personal and unique piece of art.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
The tattoo industry is constantly evolving, and staying at the top of your game requires continuous learning. The pressure of social media can be overwhelming, as artists now have to manage their online presence alongside tattooing.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The best part is seeing a client’s reaction when they look at their finished tattoo. Knowing that my art will be with them for a lifetime and empower them in some way is incredibly rewarding.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
Tattoo conventions are always exciting. They bring together artists from all over the world, allowing us to share techniques, gain inspiration, and connect with both new and existing clients. The energy at these events is amazing, and it’s a great opportunity to push yourself artistically. I’m grateful that I have won awards at different conventions all over the world. It gives me even more motivation to be a better artist.
Do you remember the first tattoo convention you have ever been to?
Yes! My first convention was in Warsaw, Poland, and it was an eye-opening experience. Seeing so many talented artists in one place was inspiring, and it motivated me to push my own boundaries.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
I attend conventions to showcase my work, meet other artists, and learn from the best in the industry. It’s an event where I push myself even more, to create something that will inspire others, as other artists inspire me. What you give is what you get.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
One of my favourite conventions was London Tattoo Convention and Gods of Ink because of its incredible atmosphere, talented artists from all over the world, and the opportunity to work alongside people I admire. It was a great mix of art, networking, and inspiration.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Be patient and dedicated. Tattooing is an art form that requires years of practice and learning, so don’t rush the process. Find a good mentor, respect the craft, and always prioritize art, professionalism, and hygiene. And most importantly, never stop improving your artistic skills!
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
There are so many incredible people and artists I look up to, it would be difficult to name them all. But I could name a few that inspire me since I started tattooing. It’s Ad Pancho, with whom I was honoured to make collaborations, it was something I couldn’t even dream of in the early days when I started. Bullet Bg, an artist I admired for his solid works, and now I’m proudly wearing an almost full leg sleeve tattooed by him.
I admire artists who continuously push boundaries, innovate, and maintain high artistic integrity. And I admire people who make this community come together, like those behind conventions, tattoo magazines, and other tattoo-related events and content. It’s a very important part of our industry, it’s how tattoo artists find inspiration and clients find their artists. And of course, the tattoo community could not exist without tattoo enthusiasts, our clients. I’m thankful every day for the people I have tattooed, thanks to them I can create and live my best life.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
One of my biggest accomplishments was participating and getting an award at London Tattoo Convention, one of the greatest shows ever. Now it’s relocated and changed its name to Gods of Ink, where I had the honour to participate last year. But beyond that, I’m proud of the trust my clients place in me to create meaningful art for them.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
Yes! I enjoy painting. My husband Mihails Neverovs and I even built a painting room in our backyard so we can paint in our free time. Exploring painting helps keep my creativity fresh and enhances my tattooing skills.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
I want to continue growing as an artist, experimenting with new styles, and possibly traveling more for guest spots and conventions. Traveling for tattoo guest spots further than before, for example to America, Canada, and Japan. It’s countries I have visited before but didn’t have a chance to tattoo there.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
Tattooing is more than just ink on skin—it’s a form of self-expression and personal transformation. Whether you’re an artist or someone looking to get tattooed, always take the time to find the right artist and trust them fully.
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