Rafał Szymura – Member of the Global Tattoo Artists Association

Oleksii
Jun 11
3 min read

Today, we're speaking with Rafał Szymura, a professional tattoo artist known for his mastery of the Traditional style. With a focus on bold lines, vibrant colors, and timeless designs, Rafał creates tattoos that honor the rich history of this classic tattooing style. In this interview, he shares the journey behind his art, the philosophies that shape his work, and his perspective on the ever-evolving global tattoo scene.

What motivated you to pursue a career as a tattoo artist?

– I’ve always been the one sitting in the client’s chair, but as an aesthete and history enthusiast, I decided to preserve historical trends and traditions.

Which part of the tattooing process do you enjoy most—designing, inking, or seeing the client's reaction?

– I love the reactions and stories of my clients, their narratives, and what the next tattoo means to them.

How would you describe your approach to tattoo design?

– Tradition, tradition, and once again, tradition. American Traditional is the essence of history, while Engraving replicates historical illustrations.

What has been the most difficult tattoo you've worked on so far?

– A simple line from the shoulder to the wrist xD

What steps do you take to ensure your clients feel at ease during the tattooing process?

– Our task is to create a comfortable atmosphere of mutual respect while maintaining authority. Familiarizing the client with the process, having a conversation, and reassuring them about the cleanliness of the procedure are also key elements of our work.

Do you believe tattoos hold deeper personal significance, or are they mainly a form of art?

– Both of these. Each client has a different approach, set of values, and expectations.

What is the longest tattoo session you've ever completed?

– 4 sessions x 8h

Are there any tattoo artists whose work you admire or who have inspired you?

– Every tattoo artist who loves tradition, everyone who is passionate about tattooing, and everyone who has their own unique style.

Could you share a story about a particularly meaningful or memorable tattoo you've done for a client?

– I can certainly include "Zbyszek" in this. A widow came to me once, someone who had lost her husband some time ago. He had been visiting her in dreams and memories. Since Mr. Zbyszek had always hated tattoos, she decided to "annoy" him a little, so we tattooed a classic heart with a ribbon and the name "Zbyszek" on her. From what she told me afterward, he finally left her in peace.

What’s the strangest or most unexpected tattoo request you’ve ever received?

– Everyone is unique. There have been a lot of funny, sad, or symbolic stories. These are their stories, and we, as craftsmen, help them make their dreams come true.

Do you view tattoos as a constantly evolving art form, and what changes do you foresee in the industry in the coming years?

– A lot is changing. Technologies, styles, regulations, knowledge. For thousands of years, we were in stagnation, but now there is a visible boom that makes evolution inevitable.

If you are a studio owner or instructor, could you tell us about your experiences in these roles?

– In our studio, I manage the training. I've already sent about 40 "swallows" (that's what I call my students) into the market, and a large number of them are now working in the industry.