Today we’d like to introduce you to Sergei Titukh.

Hi Sergei, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?

My name is Sergei Titukh, and I am a tattoo artist originally hailing from Saint Petersburg, Russia, currently based in Salem, Massachusetts. I possess around ten years of experience in the art of tattooing, specializing in designs that are dark, nature-inspired, with a particular emphasis on intricate details and organic forms. My professional affiliation is with Black Veil Tattoo, a studio renowned for its gothic and somewhat mysterious aesthetic, which aligns quite harmoniously with my own artistic inclinations.

My introduction to the world of tattooing stemmed from a profound appreciation for both art and heavy music. Over the years, I have participated in numerous tattoo conventions, where I have been honored with several awards and the opportunity to serve as a judge. My work is significantly influenced by folklore, mysticism, and the darker aspects of the natural world. Furthermore, I have been fortunate enough to collaborate with fellow artists on projects exploring the intersection of horror culture and tattoo art.

Given Salem’s prominent status as a cultural epicenter for Halloween, my work, particularly during that season, tends to resonate strongly with individuals who are drawn to the macabre. As such, I am continually striving to expand the boundaries of my craft through the incorporation of innovative techniques and thematic elements.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

Starting out wasn’t exactly easy, especially financially. I didn’t have a lot of money to invest in my craft, but I also can’t say it was an insurmountable struggle. Like most people, I faced my share of challenges, but I simply kept moving forward.

From the very beginning, I chose to carve out my own direction. Instead of trying to fit into predefined expectations, I explored, experimented, and searched for my own voice. Many advised me to master every possible style to cater to any client’s needs. But I’ve always believed that excelling at everything simultaneously is nearly impossible. When you spread yourself too thin, true growth becomes difficult. After all, people don’t seek out an artist for their versatility; they come for a distinct vision.

Early on, my work was often labeled as “too unconventional,” and many doubted that I’d attract enough clients. Naturally, my journey wasn’t without obstacles. While my style wasn’t particularly shocking, it wasn’t widely embraced either. Not everyone was ready to wear tattoos featuring monsters and dark imagery. But as time passed, aesthetics that once seemed niche gained broader appreciation. Looking back, I’m grateful that I chose to trust my instincts rather than follow conventional advice. I focused on drawing what genuinely inspired me—and, in the end, that authenticity resonated with others.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?

I am known for creating terrifying yet captivating tattoo designs. My specialty is monsters—creatures that look like they crawled out of nightmares. Sharp teeth, eerie eyes, twisted forms—my work often explores the dark and unsettling. People come to me when they want something unique, something that makes others stop and stare.

However, lately, I have been drawn to a new style of tattooing. It’s different from my usual monster work—more abstract, more organic. There is no fixed design; instead, I let my imagination flow, incorporating natural elements and allowing the tattoo to take shape during the process. It’s a very intuitive and creative approach that feels fresh and exciting to me. Right now, I am focused on developing this direction alongside my monster tattoos because it resonates with me on a deep level—it’s something new, something that challenges me artistically.

I am most proud of two things: the quality of my work and my relationship with my clients. A tattoo session is not just about putting ink on skin—it’s about trust, connection, and creating an experience. I always try to make my clients feel comfortable, both physically and emotionally, so they can truly enjoy the process. Whether it’s a horror-inspired piece or something completely abstract, I want them to leave not just with a great tattoo but with a positive and memorable experience.

What sets me apart is my dedication to pushing artistic boundaries. I don’t just repeat the same style over and over—I explore, I experiment, I evolve. Right now, I am in a phase of artistic growth, combining my love for dark aesthetics with a freer, more spontaneous approach. This balance between horror and creativity is what defines my work today.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?

Music has always been an inseparable part of my artistic vision. I would even say that heavy music is the foundation of my creativity. I’ve often mentioned in interviews that music takes up a larger space within me than drawing or tattooing.

I enjoy many different genres, but the ones that had the strongest impact on me are post-metal, sludge, atmospheric black metal, and neo-crust. I’m drawn to the depth of sound, the way long compositions unfold like a story you slowly sink into. I love the contrast between heavy, aggressive riffs and melodic, sometimes acoustic passages. Some of my favorite artists in these genres include Neurosis, Fall of Efrafa, Wolves in the Throne Room, Rwake, and Dirge. There are actually countless unique bands within these genres that experiment with sound and blend musical styles — the list could go on forever.

Alongside heavy music, I’m also deeply moved by ambient and post-rock projects. Their long, atmospheric soundscapes seem to penetrate you. That kind of music is perfect for creating. The first names that come to mind are Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Harvestman, and Talk Talk (especially their later albums, which are incredible). My good friend Vladimir also creates powerful music under several projects like Reflection Nebula and Rye.

Interestingly, many of the heavy bands I mentioned earlier also weave ambient and post-rock elements into their sound. That’s something I really connect with — it’s like the eerie calm before a storm is suddenly broken by a desperate scream of distorted riffs. This kind of music often fuels my art, and sometimes I feel as if my characters themselves are the ones crying out through these sounds.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/t_i_t_u_k_h/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/titukh/