Ilya Mityakin is a master of artistic tattoo from Penza, Russia. He specializes in creating black-and-white and color realistic tattoos.
We met Ilya at the much-talked-about Kazan Tattoo Fest. He was one of the guest tattoo artists at the event. The audience found his works amazing and impressive, as there was a special charm in his tattoos. Now, we would like to share a small part of our conversation with our readers, as well as introduce Ilya to those who have not yet had the luck to make his personal acquaintance.
«To start with, you can hardly ever meet a child who says that when he grows up, he wants to be a tattoo artist. It’s always interesting to learn about a person’s journey, life-changing factors, and pivotal events. Who did you want to be when you were a child? What did you do before you took up tattooing, and how did that experience influence you and your creative work?»
Ilya: «(Laughing) When I was a child, I wanted to be a superhero — just like every other boy! I never thought much about choosing a profession, but it so happened that I was initially working in a completely different sphere — I was a sushi chef at a restaurant. Oh yes, I can cook well, and not just sushi. The tattoo industry appealed to me as an image I saw on other people, in movies, and in magazines.»
«Very interesting! But how did you eventually start your career as a tattoo artist? Who were your first clients? Which styles did you work in? What were your first impressions?»
Ilya: «I enjoyed drawing from an early age. I even tried attending an art school. But I didn’t finish it, as the tutors wanted us to think and paint in a stereotypical way. They didn’t allow us to follow our own impulses and inner world, and I could never agree with that. When a salon in Penza offered an opportunity to study tattooing — I took it. It was one of the most significant days of my life, a turning point. My first clients were my friends who entrusted their skin to me and said: “Create!” I was nervous during my first sessions, as I felt a huge sense of responsibility.»
«So curious! When did you realize this was your path? Which distinctive features of your work can you point out yourself? What mood do you try to convey through your art?»
Ilya: «The recognition of my path came step by step: appreciation from clients, a sensible assessment of my progress — even the small things. In the end, when your hobby becomes well-paid work, and you enjoy it — what could be better?»
«I couldn’t agree more! Almost all tattoo artists are in a constant search for their personal style and unique technique. Would you say you’ve already achieved harmony, or are you still seeking it?»
Ilya: «I think a real expert in any field can never be completely satisfied with their work. There’s always room for self-improvement and further creative growth.»
«I see what you mean. Today, tattooing is leaving the underground and becoming a part of mass culture. In Russia, tattoo culture is rapidly gaining popularity. Conventions are being held in almost every major city. It’s a very favorable time to be active in this field. Could you please share some of your plans for the future with us?»
Ilya: «Development and education — these are my main plans! I have a strong desire to show people that tattooing is a true form of fine art, and by no means just a stamp on the body or a mark of affiliation with dangerous criminal groups.»
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