Today, we’re excited to introduce a very skilled and passionate tattoo artist Viacheslav, a Ukrainian-born artist. Known for his emotionally charged Black and Grey Realism, he’s a master of whip shading, bringing depth, atmosphere, and story into every piece he creates. Get to know more about Viacheslav, with this exclusive interview!
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
I’m a tattoo artist specializing in black and grey realism, using a technique called whip shading. Originally from Ukraine and now based in Los Angeles, I create detailed, emotionally driven large-scale tattoos. My work is a blend of precision, story, and atmosphere. This approach allows me to play with light, form, texture, and depth — and achieve a high level of detail in the process. It felt natural to me from the beginning, and the more I explored it, the more it became my artistic language.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
My interest in tattooing started after I saw a beautifully executed tattoo on someone in my hometown. I decided to get one myself, and while watching the process closely, I realized it wasn’t as impossible as I had imagined. That moment sparked a deep curiosity, which quickly turned into passion.
At what point in your life did you become a professional tattoo artist?
I became a professional after years of self-guided practice and discipline. Without any formal art education, I learned everything through observation, experimentation, and a constant drive to improve.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
It starts with a conversation. I take time to understand the client’s story and vision. From there, I design a piece that flows naturally with the body and stays true to both the client’s meaning and my own aesthetic. With large projects, preparation and structure are key.
Where are you based?
I’m currently based in Los Angeles, California.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in your home country these days?
Ukraine’s tattoo scene has grown massively in the last few years. There’s a new wave of talented artists pushing creative boundaries, and clients are becoming more educated and open to complex ideas. The community is tight-knit, passionate, and hungry for artistic progress.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Balancing constant creative growth with the demands of the industry. The level of competition is high, and it pushes you to stay sharp, improve constantly, and never fall into routine.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
Seeing a client truly connect with the piece you’ve created for them. Turning someone’s story or memory into permanent art is powerful. And it’s also very meaningful for me to receive recognition from top artists in the industry — their feedback is something I deeply value.
Let’s talk about tattoo conventions: what’s your experience so far?
Tattoo conventions bring a special energy. It’s a space where you connect, learn, and grow. The vibe is intense but inspiring, and it reminds you how alive this art form is.
Did you ever participate at any tattoo contest?
Yes. At my first convention in Kharkiv, Ukraine, I took home two awards: first place on day one, and third place on day two. Later, I competed in Hagen, Germany, where I won second place. More recently, I participated in the Golden State Tattoo Convention in Pasadena, one of the biggest in the U.S. The competition there was on a different level, and although I didn’t win, I learned a lot from the experience. It was my first U.S. convention, and I now know how to prepare better for the next one.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
For me, it’s all about the vibe. Tattoo culture, despite its growth, is still somewhat misunderstood by society — but it’s getting closer and more accepted with time. At conventions, you find yourself in a space where people get it, and that atmosphere makes you feel open and motivated to show your best.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for the artists and the public?
One key improvement would be clearer and more organized competition categories. At some conventions, things feel a bit confusing, and better structure would benefit both artists and attendees.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
At this point, my favorite is the Golden State Tattoo Convention in Pasadena, California. But I haven’t had the chance yet to attend the Empire Tattoo Expo in New York, which I’m very excited about. So for now, Golden State holds the top spot.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Keep learning, stay patient, and always try to understand what you’re creating. Realism isn’t about copying; it’s about understanding light, shape, and depth. Also, build strong connections with your clients. When there’s trust and mutual respect, you create better work together.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
I’m constantly inspired by the people close to me — friends, fellow artists, and those I meet through tattooing. I love meeting new people and being around diversity. But above all, I’m driven by my own progress. Evaluating my work, learning from mistakes, and growing with each tattoo is what truly keeps me going.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
Becoming a resident at Ganga Tattoo LA and working on major projects with high-profile celebrity clients. I’ve had the chance to tattoo people like Vinícius Jr., Odell Beckham Jr., Lamar Jackson, Leonard Fournette, Devin Haney, Lonzo Ball, Sauce Gardner, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Mariano Diaz, Nick Kyrgios, Edgar Berlanga, Quay Walker, Tyrann Mathieu, Rashee Rice, Anthony Richardson, Bones Hyland, Mecole Hardman Jr., Naz Reid, Jermaine Johnson, Joe Milton, Chris Brown, Tyga, Peso Pluma, Arcángel, Jake Paul, Samuel Onuha, Kai Cenat, and Duke Dennis.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
By challenging myself daily, analyzing my work, and surrounding myself with people who push me forward.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
Right now, I focus mainly on tattooing and occasionally draw for personal development. In the past, I enjoyed working with sculpting clay and creating small models and figures.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
I want to keep developing large-scale tattoo projects, travel more for conventions, and continue to grow artistically and professionally.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Yes. I’m sponsored by EZ Tattooing, who provide me with tattoo machines and needles, and also support my participation in conventions under their name. I’m also part of the INX Division from Kwadron, where I represent their ink line. Unfortunately, I don’t have a contract with Kwadron at the moment, so I’m open to sponsorship opportunities.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
Trust your path, keep pushing forward, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Growth comes from honesty, effort, and a genuine love for the craft.
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