We recently connected with Tetiana Boiko and have shared our conversation below.
Tetiana , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?
When I was studying graphic design, I worked as a waiter and later as a bartender. I always knew these jobs were temporary, but they lasted longer than I expected. I wanted a life where I could draw, be creative, and control my own schedule. The structure and rules of a traditional job felt confining, and it was hard for me to conform to that environment.
After I graduated, I chose not to work in graphic design but to explore tattooing instead. For the first time, I felt a sense of freedom and belonging. Tattooing brought challenges, of course, and I quickly learned that people often view it as a hobby rather than a serious profession. But I realized this path gave me a way to express myself fully and create my own rules, something I couldn’t find in a traditional role.
Looking back, I’m grateful I chose tattooing. It’s not always easy, but it’s meaningful work that aligns with who I am. I’d rather take on the challenges of this creative life than feel confined to a job that doesn’t allow me to be myself.
Now I don’t have such thoughts at all. Only more plans and ideas on how to realize myself in the profession of a tattoo artist.
Tetiana , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Actually, my love for art has accompanied me my entire life. My favorite subjects in school were always those most closely related to visual arts. I also studied at an art school for four years during my teenage years. Strangely enough, for those around me, I decided to pursue a degree in German language teaching after high school. But after just two years, I left that university, realizing it was not the profession of my dreams. I’m from Ukraine, so the education system differs somewhat from the American one. When I decided to study graphic design, I had to start from scratch, beginning in the first semester, which meant that the credits from my previous four semesters didn’t transfer anywhere. But I really enjoyed studying graphic design. Being surrounded by creative people truly inspires you. I think all artists have a special love for freedom, especially in work; otherwise, how could one create something beautiful?
Even after earning my bachelor’s degree in graphic design, I still felt like I was wandering, unable to find myself. At that moment, my younger sister started getting into tattoos as a client. I was very impressed by the work of the tattoo artist who did her last four tattoos. I’d been interested in tattoos before, because there’s something mysterious, almost sacred, about this art form. But this time, I realized my curiosity was so strong that I wanted to try my hand at this profession. I visited the website of that tattoo studio and saw they were looking for apprentices—I knew it was a sign. Honestly, from the very first day, even doing simple tattoos on fake skin was incredibly exciting for me. Of course, having an art background was a big help. On the fourth day of my training, I brought my friend as a model. I still remember that moment: my hands were shaking, my vision blurred, but my desire to tattoo real people only grew stronger.
During the first six months, most of my tattoos were completely free. I quit my previous job and fully immersed myself in the world of tattooing. I constantly drew and tattooed anyone who was willing. Eventually, my first paid tattoos appeared, though, honestly, that wasn’t what drove me.
Moving to the U.S. and obtaining my license was also a challenge—I think many artists, especially immigrants, will understand. Moving to a new country is always like starting a new life chapter. You have to learn a lot of things from scratch.
For me, tattooing is an art that you leave on people, with skin as the canvas instead of paper. It’s also an exchange of positive emotions with people. I feel incredibly happy when I see the positive reactions of clients who get their tattoo.
I understand that in some ways, this profession doesn’t solve global or serious problems for humanity. But for many people, tattoos are genuinely a form of self-expression. It’s like a piece of art that stays with you forever, a reminder of a specific event or person. It’s art. People often collect tattoos from different artists, and that’s inspiring.
I realize that my words may sound light in describing this profession, but when you love what you do, your work becomes your life’s purpose, a hobby, and a part of who you are. My mom didn’t like her job, and as a child, I thought that work was something you had to hate and constantly complain about. I would have been so happy if someone had told me earlier that you just need to choose a profession you love, and you’ll definitely be happy. Because that’s exactly how I feel about tattooing.
Although this profession requires a lot of self-discipline, you also need to master additional skills like drawing, photography, and marketing. There are still so many things I plan to learn and master. In the tattoo industry, you’re always learning; new styles and techniques will always emerge. In some ways, I’m only at the beginning of my journey, as I’ve been tattooing for just four years, but I’m certain that my path in this profession will be a long one. I’ve found myself, and I definitely won’t stop.
Currently, I prefer working with black ink, and most of my designs feature botanical elements that follow the contours of the body. These are very feminine designs that help my clients highlight their beauty. I love abstract, flowing lines, which for me also symbolize freedom.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
Social media is a very important resource for advertising. To start, it’s essential to find one or several platforms that you enjoy using. For me, that’s Instagram. I’ve tried other social networks, but they didn’t feel comfortable from an aesthetic point of view. I think most of my clients have come from Instagram. Of course, I carefully plan my posts before sharing them. I usually prepare around 12 each month, including photos of my work, videos, sketches, work moments, and life snippets. I often share activities from my daily life on social media.
There’s no need to be shy about showing your true self, as clients often choose you because of shared values or interests. It’s very important to use targeted ads, and it’s even better to consult a specialist in advertising. Staying on top of trends is also key.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect for me is the tattooing process itself. When I’m immersed in creating a tattoo, there’s a sense of flow and fulfillment that’s hard to match. I also find a lot of joy in sketching designs—it’s where I can fully express my creativity and bring each unique idea to life. And ultimately, seeing my clients’ reactions when they get their tattoo is incredibly fulfilling; knowing that I’ve created something meaningful for them is why I love what I do.
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