Some time ago, we introduced you to the Italian artist Luca Testadiferro and his stylish sketch tattoos.
This type of tattoo is quite popular nowadays, but unfortunately, it’s not often that you come across truly interesting and original works. Many beginners are drawn to the apparent ease and speed of execution in sketch tattoos — but this ease is deceptive. Luca Testadiferro’s works are a perfect example of high-quality sketch-style tattoos, so we decided to speak with the artist personally and learn more about him and his work.
Hello, Luca! We're very pleased to have the opportunity to do this interview. To begin with, tell us how it all started. How and when did you get into tattooing, and what did you do before?
Hi! I started tattooing about four and a half years ago. I came from the graffiti world. One day, I went with a friend to a tattoo shop — he was getting a tattoo — and I was completely fascinated by everything. I was so curious that I booked an appointment for myself as well.
It was a great experience! After getting many tattoos, I thought to myself, “Well, maybe I could tattoo something too.” So I bought a tattoo kit and started practicing on fake skin.
Did you have any formal training?
No, I was very lucky to start out at the Tattoo Artist Studio, where Matteo Cascetti taught me everything. And I’m not just talking about technique (though of course, he taught me that too), but also about “how to be a good tattooer” in life…
After that, I began working with Kostadorika Tattoo Studio — a great studio full of amazing resident and guest artists.
Do you remember your very first customer? What did you feel as a tattoo artist while doing your first tattoo?
Yes, of course I do. I made my very first tattoo on a friend of mine — it was an origami swan. I remember that as soon as I made the first line, I immediately realized I wasn’t ready. It definitely wasn’t a masterpiece — but it’s still on Federico’s leg!
The first official tattoo I did in the Tattoo Artist Studio was a small phrase on a shoulder. I still keep that stencil in my memory drawer.
What do you find most attractive about tattooing?
What I love most about the tattoo world is the chance to share and learn new things. I really enjoy talking to my colleagues about how they work, what they think, what tools they use…
I believe improvement comes from gaining as much experience as possible, talking to as many people as possible, and watching how others work.
Who or what inspires you?
There are so many great artists out there that it’s impossible to name just a few…
I think it’s amazing when someone can look at a tattoo and instantly recognize who made it. That means the artist has developed a unique and recognizable style — and that’s what I strive for in my own work.
Tell us about your style. What drew you to sketch-style tattoos?
I honestly don’t know… I do sketch tattoos because it’s what I know how to do! Ahahaha.
I love graphic-style art, and sketching is fun! You can always change or add something — there are no rules!
What features make your tattoos truly yours and unique?
I'm happy to hear that you think my tattoos are unique — ahahaha, thank you!
In my opinion, the key is simplicity. My drawings are very simple — just a few lines, but they’re placed exactly where they need to be. The same goes for the use of color.
As I said before, it might look easy — but it’s not! The line between a great tattoo and a bad one is very thin.
Luca, thank you for the interesting conversation! We’re looking forward to seeing more of your new works!
Thanks!
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