Today, we are excited to present an interview with one of Russia’s talented tattoo artists — Matty Nox.
The artist lives in Moscow and works at the KRAPIVA tattoo studio. Sasha (Matty Nox) has been professionally involved in tattooing since 2010. In her work, she experiments with blending different styles. You can see the lightness of watercolor mixed with the rawness of Art Brut. These bold combinations resonate with fans of conceptual tattoo styles!
Let’s start with a traditional question: How did it all begin? How did you take up tattooing, and what was your occupation before that?
It all started quite by accident when I decided to get a custom-designed tattoo. The artist appreciated my sketch and suggested that I train under him. I was curious to see if I could prove myself in a creative field. By that time, I had already graduated from the Art and Graphics Department and worked as a graphic designer, gained some success in photography — but I always wanted to draw my own pictures. For me, it’s important to grow in this field and search for my own style. The material doesn’t really matter — be it paper, canvas, or skin.
Also, even though my “mentor” worked out of an apartment and boiled his tools in the same pots he used for cooking, he was making decent money — which was a convincing argument for me at that time in my youth.
Back then, I believed I would create something original — unlike other artists who were tattooing images found on the internet. I thought I’d make a lot of beautiful things and change the world for the better. These ideas were quite naive, even in 2010. I had to patiently wait for interesting requests, as most people just wanted butterflies and infinity symbols. I had to compromise, persuade people to change their minds, or turn them down. I didn’t budge from my position, and over time, clients began to consider my taste and opinion.
So I bought a couple of tattoo machines (Khrust Kostey — “The Bone Cruncher” — from Rechnoy, and Micro Jones by Seth Ciferri) and other equipment with the money I earned from commercial photography gigs, and I began tattooing in my first studio — a workshop in the attic of my friends’ garage.
Do you remember your first client? What did you feel when making your first tattoo?
My first experience was dreadful. My first "victim" was very skinny, constantly moaning and squirming. She kept running out to smoke and call her boyfriend. Still, I’ve never been worried about causing pain — my only concern during work is to produce a quality tattoo.
After we corrected an old tattoo together, my “mentor” threw me into solo flight and disappeared for three years. One day, out of the blue, he messaged me: “Great job! You’re going to succeed!” I replied, “Why didn’t you help me, sensei?” And he said, “You have to be worth the master’s attention.” That’s the kind of stern attitude old-school tattooers had.
Which styles did you try before settling on watercolor?
I’ve tried almost every direction — from graphic work to trash polka. You have to discover what you enjoy, what you’re capable of, and how best to express your ideas — or your client’s vision.
Who or what inspires you?
I find inspiration everywhere — in movies, animals, birds, and other people’s art. Sometimes, a picture of something as unexpected as a knocked-down fox can stir emotions that I want to express through drawing. Right now, I’m fascinated by everything related to the sea — yachts and barges, shipyards and lighthouses, fish and other marine creatures.
Can you recall any curious or extraordinary events in your tattooing career?
Every client is a story. They come from different professions, and I learn a lot from them. I spend a lot of time with people I wouldn’t normally interact with in daily life — doctors, astronomers, journalists, investigators. I always “interview” my clients — I ask about their jobs, countries they’ve traveled to, or even which soap operas are worth watching. I love my job! :))
Can you share your plans for the near future? Are you considering traveling for tattoos? Any upcoming conventions you’re planning to attend?
I want to shift the direction and style of my work — make it more minimalistic. I hope to step out of my comfort zone and create something completely new. In 2017, I’m planning some tattoo tours — at least across Europe. As for conventions — they’re not really my thing. I don’t have a competitive spirit, and all the hustle and chaos of conventions would just wear me out. I prefer working in a calm and cozy atmosphere, one-on-one with the client, without unwanted attention.
Sasha, thank you very much for the interesting interview! We look forward to seeing your new creative discoveries!
Thank you!
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