Interview with Vitalii Hyrenko – Tattoo Artist & Global Association Member

Today, we're speaking with Vitalii Hyrenko, a professional tattoo artist and member of the Global Tattoo Artists Association. With years of experience and a distinctive approach to his craft, Vitalii shares his perspective on tattooing as an art form, the creative process behind his work, and the evolving trends in the industry.

What inspired you to become a tattoo artist?

— Since childhood, I wanted to create and draw.

What’s your favorite part of the tattooing process—sketching, inking, or the client reaction?

— Client reaction.

How would you describe your tattoo style?

— I'm still looking for my own style. But I love black and white realism and graphics, Polynesia.

What’s the most challenging tattoo you’ve ever done?

— A tattoo for a soldier that took us 16 hours to make.

How do you make sure your clients are comfortable during the tattoo process?

— I make sure the client is comfortable by paying attention to their position and reaction during the session, and I communicate with them and ask questions about this.

Do you think tattoos have a deeper meaning for people, or are they just an art form?

— For each person in their own way. There are those who put meaning into tattoos, there are those who simply draw beautiful pictures on themselves. Everything is individual.

What’s the longest tattoo session you've ever had?

— 16 hours.

Do you have any tattoo artists who inspire you or whose work you admire?

— Yes, @kink_inker, @tadashi.artist, @hutovska.tattoo.

Can you tell us about a memorable or meaningful tattoo you’ve done for someone?

— This was a tattoo for my wife, with our zodiac signs and our children's.

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

— One of the most meaningful tattoo requests I’ve ever received was from a client who wanted to honor her beloved pet. She asked me to design a tattoo that would symbolize their unbreakable bond, even beyond time and distance. Together, we created an elegant and deeply personal design: a minimalist outline of a hand reaching towards a realistic paw print, connected by a red thread.

The paw print was taken directly from her pet’s actual imprint, making it truly unique and special. The red thread, inspired by the ancient legend of fate, symbolized the everlasting connection between them—one that would remain strong even after her pet was gone.

When the tattoo was finished, I could see how much it meant to her. It was more than just ink on skin; it was a permanent reminder that love and memories never fade. Moments like these remind me why I do what I do—tattoos are not just art, they are powerful symbols of the stories and emotions we carry with us.

Do you see tattoos as an evolving art form, and if so, how do you think the industry will change in the next decade?

— Absolutely! Tattoos are undoubtedly an evolving art form, constantly influenced by cultural shifts, technological advancements, and artistic innovations. Over the next decade, I anticipate several key transformations in the industry.

First, technology will continue to play a significant role, with advancements in tattoo machines, ink formulations, and even AI-assisted designs, allowing for even greater precision and customization. The rise of 3D printing and biotechnological developments may also introduce groundbreaking possibilities, such as bio-ink tattoos or temporary designs that change over time.

Second, I see a growing emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility. As the stigma around tattoos continues to fade, more professionals from various industries will feel comfortable embracing body art. This will likely lead to a broader client base and further normalization of tattoos in mainstream society.

Additionally, sustainability will become a major focus. The industry is already moving towards eco-friendly inks, biodegradable aftercare products, and ethical sourcing of materials. Over the next decade, I expect more tattoo studios to adopt sustainable practices to minimize their environmental impact.

Finally, I believe the artistic boundaries of tattooing will continue to expand, with more crossovers between fine art, digital design, and tattooing. We’re already seeing tattoo artists collaborate with painters, sculptors, and fashion designers, and this trend will likely grow, further elevating tattooing as a respected and dynamic art form.

Overall, the industry is on an exciting path of innovation, creativity, and inclusivity, and I’m eager to be part of this evolution.