Maks Kornev is a world-famous master of realistic tattooing! Founder of Artefact Tattoo studio in St. Petersburg, winner of numerous international tattoo convention and festival awards, member of the Pro Team for top tattoo brands, and a public favorite — Maks is here today in our Exclusive section.
Maks, we’re among your many fans and truly admire your work! We’re also very proud that such a skilled master of tattoo realism is our compatriot. What did you do before becoming a tattoo artist? Who did you want to be when you were a child?
Maks: «Glad to hear that you follow my work and take an interest in what I do — thank you so much. Who did I want to be as a kid? Honestly, I don’t even remember, it was so long ago. But I’ve loved drawing since childhood, and maybe that’s what eventually led me to tattooing.»
I get that! You’ve been in the industry for a long time and achieved great success. But how did your journey begin? Was there anyone or anything that influenced or guided you toward tattoo art?
Maks: «Actually, no — nobody influenced or pushed me. It just happened. I saw something about tattoos on TV or in a magazine — I don’t even remember where exactly — and I got interested. I thought, “This looks cool, being a tattoo artist must be awesome.” And that’s how it started. Little by little, I got deeper into it… then came conventions, meeting other artists, and so on.»
That’s amazing! Did you start with realism right away, or did you try other styles first? Do you remember your first tattoo and who your first client was?
Maks: «Oh yeah, sure — straight to super-detailed realism masterpieces! (laughs) Just kidding, of course. I started with tribal designs, lettering, hieroglyphs, little cats... Gradually, I kept improving my technique and eventually moved into realism. I worked more and more, and the results got better and better. I honestly don’t remember my first tattoo — who, what, where... it was a long time ago.»
That’s great! Many artists dream of joining the pro team of a well-known tattoo brand. Could you tell us how you joined the World Famous Tattoo Ink Pro Team? What advice would you give to those who are still on their way up?
Maks: «Yes, that’s right. I’m part of the World Famous Tattoo Ink Pro Team, supported by brands like FK Irons, Dermalize Pro, and Ink Booster. I didn’t reach out to them — they found me and offered to join their team. If you’re creating great tattoos, in any style, people will notice. So go for it — work hard and focus on quality.»
Well said! World Famous Tattoo Ink recently released your personal color sets. Could you tell us more about them? What makes them special, and who would benefit from using them?
Maks: «That’s right — I contributed to the brand’s palette, which now includes over 200 colors. My sets focus on portraiture, zombie tones, blood effects, skulls... That kind of thing. But you can use the colors in any style, really. Give them a try — hope you’ll enjoy them!»
Sounds fantastic. You’ve already accomplished so much — international recognition, multiple awards, collaborations with leading brands, opening your own studio in St. Petersburg, and launching your own ink sets. What are your plans for the near future? Where can fans see your work next? Are you working on any special projects?
Maks: «The usual — working in the studio, attending conventions, doing guest spots in other countries and studios. You can find the list of places I’ll be visiting on my Facebook or VK pages. I usually announce everything in advance.»
Got it. Let’s wrap up with this: people seem to be less afraid of tattoos now, even large-scale projects. Do you feel that tattoo culture in Russia is moving out of the underground and becoming a true art form — like painting or photography?
Maks: «To a certain extent, yes. There are lots of studios and artists now, the level keeps growing, conventions are being held. But there are still people who judge tattoo artists — some are afraid of being misunderstood or even losing their jobs. Still, the most important thing is that we’re not standing still. Tattoo culture is developing.»
Maks, thank you very much for taking the time to chat with us! I sincerely wish all your plans come true!
Maks: «Thank you :)»
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