Built Through Years, Not Trends
With over 13 years in tattooing, Anton Martiushev has built his name through consistency, discipline, and a clear focus on black and grey realism. Now based in Los Angeles at Monna Lissa Tattoo shop, his work reflects years of refining technique and developing a strong foundation.
“It took years to understand how to build a tattoo that actually holds over time.”
A Recognizable Style Built on Structure
Anton’s work is defined by a highly recognizable approach to black and grey realism. His tattoos are known for strong contrast, smooth transitions, and a controlled application that gives the work depth and clarity even after healing.
What sets his work apart is the way each tattoo is built from the design stage. A large part of the process happens before the machine even touches the skin.
“For me, about 90% of a strong tattoo is the design. If the structure is right from the beginning, everything else works.”
He focuses on large-scale compositions that follow the anatomy of the body and remain visually strong over time. His consistent approach to contrast, flow, and structure makes his work recognizable to both clients and professionals in the industry.
Winning on the International Stage
Anton has actively competed at tattoo conventions across Europe, Asia, and the United States, including participation in major events such as the Singapore Tattoo Convention, along with multiple conventions across Europe.
His work has earned multiple awards, including Best of Show titles in different countries — including France, the United States, and Russia — as well as top placements in black and grey realism categories.
“At conventions, everything is real — you work under pressure, and the result speaks for itself.”
These high-level events continue to push his technical standards and artistic growth.
From Competitor to International Judge
As his reputation grew, Anton was invited to serve as a judge at tattoo conventions in Israel, France, Turkey, and the United States, including major events such as the Golden State Tattoo Expo en The New York Tattoo Convention.
Judging at this level requires experience, technical understanding, and trust from organizers. Artists in jury positions are selected based on their professional recognition and ability to evaluate composition, contrast, execution, and long-term quality of tattoo work.
“When you judge, you start seeing things differently. It makes you more precise in your own work too.”
Travel That Keeps the Edge Sharp
Traveling through conventions has become a key part of Anton’s development. Working in different countries exposes him to new levels, different approaches, and constantly evolving standards.
“Every place pushes you in a different way. That’s what keeps you growing.”
This international experience continues to shape both his technique and creative direction.
Beyond Tattooing: Masks as Trophies
In addition to tattooing, Anton creates handcrafted masks inspired by Japanese mythology and dark aesthetics. Each piece is sculpted and finished by hand.
His work has gone beyond personal projects — tattoo convention organizers have approached him directly to create custom trophies, requesting unique and visually strong pieces for their events.
Today, his masks are used as awards at international tattoo conventions, becoming part of the identity of those events.
“They wanted something different — something artists actually want to win.”
Focused on Growth, Not Comfort
WNow working in Los Angeles with an international clientele, Anton continues to push not only his own work, but also his knowledge within the tattoo community.
He believes that growth is not just about personal results, but about sharing experience with other artists. Through his work and collaborations, he helps simplify complex aspects of tattooing for others.
Anton also works with brands like Allegory Ink, where he tests pigments in real conditions and provides feedback based on long-term healed results. This helps other tattoo artists better understand how inks perform over time and make more confident choices.
“For me, it’s not just about pushing my work forward, but also sharing what I’ve learned with other artists.”
Written by Tom Vansteeland 13/04/2026
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