We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ilayda Atlas a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Ilayda , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?
The kindest thing anyone has ever done for me isn’t a single grand gesture, but rather a collection of small, meaningful moments that happen almost every day in my work as a tattoo artist. Specializing in Asian ornamental designs, I often find that people trust me with something deeply personal: their stories, their emotions, and their bodies. This trust, in itself, is one of the greatest acts of kindness I’ve experienced.
Each client brings their own history, their own imperfections, and what always moves me is how they allow me to witness and contribute to their journey. In the philosophy of wabi-sabi, there’s a deep appreciation for the beauty in imperfection and impermanence. I often reflect on this when working with my clients. They don’t come to me expecting perfection; they come to me with their flaws, their scars—both physical and emotional—and allow me to create something meaningful from that.
What makes these moments so powerful is not just the art I create, but the connection and understanding that happens during the process. Every time someone smiles, thanks me, or hugs me after a session, I am reminded of the kindness that exists in the act of trusting someone else with something so personal. These gestures, though simple, feel incredibly profound because they reflect the mutual respect and appreciation we have for each other.
The gratitude people express toward me makes me feel that my art is not just decorating their skin, but touching their lives in a more meaningful way. This shared experience of kindness through my work makes me feel incredibly fulfilled, knowing that through my craft, I can offer a small piece of healing, understanding, and connection.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I have been a tattoo artist for five years, and I can confidently say that my journey has been a fascinating one. In the beginning, during my “baby steps,” my tattoo art primarily reflected my own cultural background, focusing on Middle Eastern Turkish patterns. However, for the past two years, I have shifted my focus to Asian culture and its ornaments. Living in Asia and studying this rich culture has greatly influenced my artistic evolution.
Through my work, I strive to highlight the contemporary significance of Asian culture, using my platform to showcase its beauty and depth. One of my signature elements is the use of red ink, which is deeply rooted in Asian symbolism. The color red holds a wealth of meanings—it’s often associated with luck, love, strength, and protection. I dedicate myself to expressing these concepts through my tattoos.
My clients frequently tell me that they appreciate how I beautifully convey aspects of their own cultures through my art. This feedback brings me immense joy and fuels my passion for tattooing. Despite my upbringing in a different culture, I feel honored to create modern, fusion pieces that resonate with diverse backgrounds.
Most of my clients discover me through social media, or they encounter my work in the cities where I guest tattoo. In today’s digital age, social media is an invaluable platform that has significantly expanded my reach.
In addition to tattooing, I often enrich my craft by creating beautiful illustrations and traditional art pieces. This allows me to maintain a well-rounded artistic approach.
What I’m most proud of is my ability to connect with people from various cultures and provide them with a meaningful expression of their identities through my work. I hope to convey to potential clients, followers, and fans that my art is not just about tattoos; it’s about storytelling, connection, and cultural appreciation.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
I believe many non-creatives might struggle to grasp the complexity of the creative process and the dedication required to sustain it. In today’s world, becoming a tattoo artist or entering the tattoo industry is much more accessible than it was a decade ago. While it may seem that opportunities are abundant and readily available, the reality is that maintaining a successful and sustainable career in this field is significantly more challenging.
Throughout my life, I’ve worked in various artistic domains while also collaborating with professionals from different fields. This experience has taught me that creativity is not just about having talent; it’s about continuous nourishment and forward-thinking. Many people overlook the fact that while starting a venture can be straightforward, the true skill lies in sustaining and growing it over time.
Working consistently is one of the keys to success. When you invest effort into your craft, you will eventually see the rewards. I liken the creative journey to a game of life. When you begin to combine the right items with the right perspectives, you create something truly special. This process not only propels your art forward but also enhances your personal growth as an artist.
So, I encourage anyone interested in the creative field to understand that it’s a continuous journey requiring passion, persistence, and the willingness to evolve. It’s not just about the end product but also about the process and the learning that happens along the way.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist, particularly in the tattoo industry, is the infinite journey of learning and growth. There’s never a definitive point where I can say, “I’ve made it” or “I’ve reached my peak.” This absence of a final destination can sometimes lead to moments of self-doubt or breakdowns, but it also serves as a boundless source of motivation.
Each new step I take often leads to unexpected evolutions in my work and thought processes. These moments of discovery can bring small joys and bursts of happiness. For instance, I’ve found that the creative aspects of my profession have significantly enhanced my communication skills. Engaging with clients from diverse backgrounds not only helps me better understand their desires but also enriches my interpersonal abilities.
Additionally, the ever-evolving nature of creativity encourages me to remain open to new experiences and perspectives. Every interaction, every tattoo, and every artistic endeavor contributes to my growth, pushing me beyond my limits and enabling me to explore uncharted territories in my art.
Ultimately, the journey itself—filled with learning, adaptation, and connection—is what I find most rewarding. It reminds me that creativity is not just about producing art; it’s about continually evolving and discovering who I am as an artist and as a person.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ilaydatlas.work
- Instagram: @ilaydatlas
- Facebook: @ilaydatlas
- Linkedin: Ilayda Atlas
