Evgeny Mel is one of Russia’s talented tattoo artists. He moved to Moscow from Chelyabinsk, and this summer visited Ink Mania — the Belgian tattoo convention. As Evgeny says, it was his first trip abroad. Mel is making a name for himself with a style built around emerald tones, frequent motifs of animals and nature, and easy, open communication with clients.
Evgeny, greetings! Let’s start from the beginning. When did you start tattooing, and how did it all begin for you?
— Hi! I actually started quite a while ago — I was 19 (I’m 27 now). It all began after I got my first tattoo on my neck. After that, of course, I thought: “Why can’t I do this too?” Back then, the tattoo scene was still developing — I’d say I got in during the third wave of tattoo artists. There were very few good mentors, so I had to learn everything myself. It’s not an easy profession to figure out, and it took me a few years to feel like a real artist. I think I became one when I quit my regular job and committed fully to tattooing — around 2012.
Do you have an art education?
— Not exactly. As far back as I can remember, I’ve always been drawing and improving my skills. Although there was a period when I didn’t touch a pencil or pen — oddly enough, right after I attended art school. Maybe talent is genetic — my dad’s an artist! (laughs)
Do you remember your first client?
— Oh, for sure. It was my friend Seva. But if we’re talking about my first professional tattoo — honestly, I don’t remember. It’s like Darwin’s chicken-or-egg paradox. At the beginning, I didn’t really understand what I was doing — I just kept going and learned along the way. I’ve been working for so long now that I’ve lost track of when it truly started. I could probably dig through my Instagram or VK to find the earliest pieces, but those weren’t really “firsts.”
Were you nervous when doing your first tattoo?
— It was more confusing than scary. My hands were shaking, I had no idea how to move the needle properly, even assembling the machine felt like rocket science. Nowadays you can just watch a tutorial on YouTube — but back then, there was nothing like that.
How do you define your style? What inspires you to create?
— I wouldn’t try to give it a name. My style is more about specific techniques — just like many other artists. Right now I’m working in dotwork, but not the traditional kind where you manually apply clusters of dots. I use a technique where each dot is created in automatic mode with rhythmic needle hits and sharp movements across the skin. I also love working in turquoise tones — that’s something distinctive in my work. I try to draw freehand as much as possible, though of course there are exceptions when I need a precise geometric shape or a specific animal silhouette. My clients inspire me when they share their ideas — that’s when my imagination kicks in.
You recently took part in the Belgian convention. What was that experience like?
— Yes, exactly! That was actually my first time traveling abroad. I really liked it — it’s just not the same as our conventions here. In Europe, people often get tattooed at conventions, and it’s much easier to travel across countries there than it is within Russia. Even though nobody there knew who I was, I had a line of people waiting for me. I actually did more tattoos in one day than I ever had before — four in total. It was exhausting, but absolutely worth it.
Do you plan to travel more? How do you see your future?
— Yes, I plan to return to the next Ink Mania — and possibly go somewhere else in Europe too. I get a lot of invitations from studios abroad. Maybe I’ll start doing masterclasses or offer private lessons. I might even change my style down the road — but not anytime soon.
What advice would you give to beginner artists who felt that spark after doing their first tattoo?
— First of all, understand that you can’t become a tattoo artist in a month. You have to draw a lot — sketch constantly. And if you’ve got the money, find a mentor or take proper training. But that’s not easy in Russia.
What’s your take on the future of tattooing in Russia?
— Right now, competition is fierce. The market is oversaturated. We’ve got an incredible number of high-level artists with their own styles — more than in Europe, I’d say. But the demand for tattoos is lower than the number of artists offering them. In terms of tattooing, Russia is actually leading right now. It’s no coincidence that so many of our artists go to Belgium and come back with awards. Our guys have made a name for themselves in Europe and America. Honestly, foreigners should be coming here for tattoos — our prices are low and the quality is high. And our artists should be going out into the world more.
Thank you so much for the interview — it was a pleasure talking to you!
— Thank you! :)
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