From Taekwondo Enthusiast to Tattoo Artistry

Alexey Boyko, a 27-year-old native of Mirny, Sakha in the northern reaches of Russia, has forged a remarkable path in the world of tattoo artistry. Before immersing himself in the captivating world of tattooing, Alexey’s life was centered around a different passion: sports, specifically taekwondo and acrobatics. In this exclusive interview with Tattoogenda, Alexey shares the intriguing story of his journey from the world of sports to the realm of tattoos, his unique inspirations, and the evolution of his distinctive tattoo style that reflects the rugged beauty of his northern roots.

Discovering a Creative Calling:

Alexey’s early life was marked by his dedication to sports. However, beneath his athletic pursuits lay a hidden passion for tattoo culture. It all began when he got his first tattoo during his school years, sparking an enduring interest in the art form. Little did he know that this initial encounter with tattoos would set the stage for a remarkable transformation.

From Piercing Master to Tattoo Artist:

Upon embarking on his tattoo journey, Alexey took a rather unconventional path. He initially entered the tattoo industry as a piercing master at a studio in Irkutsk, Siberia. Yet, after a year and a half, a yearning for more creative expression led him to transition into the realm of tattooing, where he would ultimately find his true calling.

 

The Arduous Path to Mastery:

For Alexey, becoming a tattoo artist was no walk in the park. He grappled with questions about his preferred style and artistic direction, experimenting with various styles from old-school to realism. After five years of dedicated practice, he finally honed in on a unique style that drew inspiration from the ornamental aesthetics of his hometown, Mirny.

 

Passion Unwavering:

In this interview, Alexey expresses his enduring passion for tattooing, fueled by a ceaseless quest for novelty and inspiration from the world around him. His tattoo style, characterized as “something northern” and simultaneously “rough but tender,” serves as a visual testament to his profound connection with the northern landscapes that shaped his upbringing.

Tattooing as Artistic Expression:

One of the core principles underlying Alexey’s approach to tattooing is the belief that a tattoo should be an extension of the individual, conveying their unique identity and personal narrative. His design process is as organic as it gets, with freehand sketching and close collaboration with clients to ensure that each tattoo seamlessly integrates with the body.

Challenges and Triumphs:

Alexey openly discusses the challenges he faced during his journey, singling out contouring as the most demanding technique to master. Despite these obstacles, he persevered, and his unwavering commitment to improving his craft shines through in his work. 

The Essence of His Designs:

While simplicity might be the ultimate sophistication, Alexey finds that the most crucial element in his designs is the initial idea. He intentionally employs straightforward elements, striving for the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication in his patterns.

The Artistic Journey:

Alexey’s artistic journey is punctuated by magical moments at various stages of the tattooing process, from the challenge of designing to the meditative act of tattooing and the awe-inspiring completion of a piece that brings his vision to life. Each phase holds its unique allure, but for Alexey, the design stage stands out as a perpetual source of inspiration and growth.

 

Continued Evolution:

As he reflects on his artistic path, Alexey distinguishes between being an artist and a tattoo artist, emphasizing that those who dedicate their lives to this creative medium are true artists in their own right. As he looks ahead, Alexey is determined to continue evolving, expressing his desire to explore uncharted artistic territories and unveil the unseen facets of his talent.

 

Conclusion:

Alexey Boyko’s artistic journey, from taekwondo practitioner to tattoo artist, is a testament to the transformative power of passion and creativity. His distinctive style, inspired by the northern landscapes of his homeland, captures the rugged beauty and rich culture of the Russian North. As he continues to push boundaries and explore new horizons, we eagerly anticipate the artistry and innovation that Alexey will bring to the world of tattooing in the years to come.

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