We were lucky to catch up with Jiri Tomanek recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jiri, thanks for joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

When I first transitioned from being a marketing manager for Cartier to becoming a tattoo artist, it felt like stepping into a completely different world. I had always been passionate about art, painting and drawing had been a part of my life since childhood. But turning that passion into a career was a leap of faith. I started with an apprenticeship at a tattoo shop, but I quickly realized that the structured environment I was used to in the corporate world didn’t apply here. Much of what I’ve learned in tattooing has been through trial and error, or as I like to say, trying/failing, and trying again.

One thing that gave me an advantage was my background in marketing. It taught me the importance of branding, understanding clients, and building relationships, all skills that have been invaluable in running a successful tattoo business. However, the artistic side of tattooing required a different kind of discipline. Knowing how to paint and draw gave me a strong foundation, but tattooing demanded an in-depth understanding of anatomy, contrast, and color theory. Those became my essential tools, not just for creating beautiful designs but for ensuring they worked on the human canvas.

Looking back, if I could have sped up my learning process, I would have focused more on mastering the technical side of tattooing early on: understanding the machines, the needles, and how to achieve consistent results. I also think that a little leadership within the industry could have helped me navigate challenges more effectively. Learning on your own is rewarding, but having guidance makes a world of difference.

The biggest obstacle I faced wasn’t external, it was my own mindset. Coming from a high-pressure corporate environment, I often felt like I wasn’t good enough, like I had something to prove. That fear of not measuring up slowed me down at times. But once I realized that growth comes from persistence, not perfection, everything began to shift.

Today, I use my experience to not only create art that people carry with them forever but also to build meaningful connections with my clients. Each tattoo is more than just ink, it’s a reflection of their story and my journey as an artist. And that’s something I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Jiri, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m a professional tattoo artist and owner of a successful tattoo shop. Before stepping into this craft, I worked as a marketing manager for Cartier and other premium french brands, a role that taught me the value of precision, luxury, and the importance of understanding client needs. However, my passion for art has been a constant in my life, ever since I was a child spending hours painting and drawing. It was that passion that eventually led me to pursue tattooing as my career, merging my creative side with my ability to connect deeply with clients.

Though I began my tattooing journey with an apprenticeship, much of what I know today came through my own relentless self-learning and practice. I specialize in creating meaningful, custom tattoos, and my style often reflects vibrant colors, attention to detail, and emotional storytelling. Whether it’s watercolor designs, intricate floral work like the peonies I’ve tattooed, or something deeply personal to the client, my goal is to create pieces that feel truly unique and resonate with the person wearing them.

What sets me apart is my ability to combine technical mastery with emotional depth. My background in marketing helps me understand what clients truly want and how to communicate my brand effectively. This has been invaluable in building a loyal international clientele. I also see tattooing as much more than an art form, it’s a way to build meaningful connections. I’ve had the privilege of working with people who have traveled across borders just to get tattooed by me, which is an incredible honor and one of the things I’m most proud of.

For me, tattooing isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about creating something timeless that aligns with my clients’ stories and personalities. My brand reflects this ethos, blending creativity with authenticity. I want potential clients to know that when they work with me, they’re getting more than just a tattoo; they’re experiencing a process that’s personal, thoughtful, and uniquely tailored to them.

Whether it’s through the tattoos I create, the emotional connections I forge with clients, or the impact my brand has on the tattoo industry, my mission is to leave a lasting impression. Permanent art in temporary world. For me, success isn’t just about recognition; it’s about hearing from clients that people recognize my work and my brand wherever they go. That feedback is what fuels my passion and drives me to keep pushing boundaries in what I do.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to see my work come to life from start to finish. In the corporate world, I was just one small part of a much larger process, contributing to a machine where I rarely saw the final outcome. As a tattoo artist, I get to take an idea, whether it’s my own or a client’s and bring it to life in a way that’s deeply personal and impactful. There’s nothing quite like the moment a client looks at their tattoo for the first time and you can see their happiness and excitement. Knowing that I’ve created something they’ll carry with them forever is incredibly fulfilling.

Another aspect I treasure is the freedom this career gives me, not just in my schedule but in my mind. Leaving the corporate world allowed me to think outside of the box and explore my creativity without limitations. I’m no longer confined by rigid processes or the expectations of a brand; instead, I have the space to dream, experiment, and innovate. This mental freedom is what sparks my ideas and keeps me inspired every day.

Ultimately, it’s about the connections I make with my clients and the art we create together. Seeing their stories reflected in the tattoos I design and knowing I’ve played a role in something meaningful to them, it’s that emotional connection that makes what I do so rewarding. I feel truly grateful to be able to express myself through my work while also making a difference in the lives of the people I tattoo.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Building my audience on social media has been all about authenticity. From the very beginning, I decided to show people exactly who I am: no guise, no masks, no trying to fit into some prepackaged mold of what a tattoo artist should be. I’ve always believed that honesty resonates with people, so I share my genuine thoughts, ideas, and creative process. Whether it’s about art, life, or something deeply personal, I put it out there as it is.

Writing has also played a huge role in my journey. I post reflections and deliberations almost every day on topics I care about such as creativity, emotions, societal issues, or even my experiences as an artist. These posts aren’t just captions to accompany my tattoos; they’re windows into how I think and what drives me. Sometimes they’re thought-provoking, other times they might be controversial. I’m not afraid to challenge my audience, poke them a bit, or start a conversation that feels uncomfortable but necessary. That’s what makes social media exciting for me, it’s not just a gallery of my work; it’s a space for dialogue and connection.

My advice to anyone starting to build their social media presence is simple: be yourself. People are drawn to authenticity, not perfection. Share your real thoughts, your real struggles, your real victories. Don’t be afraid to stand out, even if that means being polarizing sometimes. It’s better to have a loyal audience who connects with you deeply than a large one that doesn’t know who you really are. Also, consistency is key! Post regularly, engage with your followers, and show them the human behind the art. When you do that, you’re not just building a social media presence; you’re creating a community.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bratrvira.com
• Instagram: @bratr_vira