The “Michelangelo of the Tattoo Renaissance” uses his foundation in traditional painting and sculpture to create masterpieces.
Presented by APG
Modern tattoos are detailed, meaningful, and often have significant personal or cultural significance. They allow people to tell stories, mark important life events, or show their identity through permanent body art. As they evolve, tattoos are recognized as a genuine and sophisticated art form.
Tattoo art requires precision, creativity and a true understanding of design principles. The ability to transform human skin into a canvas for vibrant artwork is a skill that tattoo artists develop over years of practice. Each tattoo tells a story, often reflecting the person’s personal journey and the artist’s vision.
The increasing popularity of custom designs highlights the growing desire for tattoos that are both visually appealing and have important personal meaning. This underscores the importance of the relationship between client and artist, where collaboration and good communication are essential to creating a work that really resonates with the wearer.
The tattoo industry is constantly evolving, and trends often reflect what is popular in society at the time. Minimalist designs with clean lines and subtle shading are becoming increasingly popular, especially among people who prefer simplicity and elegance. At the same time, detailed, large-scale pieces still attract fans who want bold and intricate artwork.
Demand for fineline tattoos – a format that showcases the artist’s skills – has also increased significantly. The delicate designs require a great deal of precision and leave no room for error. As tattoos become more accepted in society, the variety of styles and designs continues to grow, offering something for everyone – from understated elegance to elaborate, expressive art.
Statistics from a 2023 Pew Research Center survey show that about 32 percent of American adults have at least one tattoo, with 22 percent of those having more than one. This growing acceptance is also reflected in the increasing visibility of tattoos in professional settings, where they are often seen as an expression of individuality rather than a stigmatized sign of counterculture. This shift in perception shows a wider acceptance and normalization of body art in everyday life as societal values evolve.
Mikhail Andersson’s rise in the tattoo industry is an example of the seamless fusion of traditional art and modern tattooing. Andersson has been called the “Michelangelo of the Tattoo Renaissance.” His unique journey, spanning classic art forms and innovations in tattoo art, has cemented his reputation as a pioneer. His ability to transfer intricate designs and captivating stories to human skin has helped him become a popular tattoo artist.
Andersson believes that public opinion about tattoo art has been influenced by shows like Miami Inkthat help showcase the history and artistry that goes into each tattoo. He also believes that Instagram is responsible for the current tattoo “Golden Age.”
“When I see someone with a tattoo,” says Andersson, “I see that they have endured many hours of pain and effort. When I see someone with a body suit or back piece, I see the sacrifices and the time, how much thought they put into it and how much money they spent. To me, that’s almost a different person than someone who doesn’t have it. It’s a journey.”
Andersson’s artistic development began with training in traditional painting and sculpture, disciplines that honed his eye for detail and composition. When he moved into tattooing, he brought with him a unique vision that bridges the gap between classical and contemporary art. His work, characterized by meticulous craftsmanship and evocative storytelling, transforms the human body into a living, breathing masterpiece.
“The experience of a tattoo artist determines how we see the world. Everyone sees the world differently,” says Andersson. “If you put 100 people in a room, they will draw it differently. The way I see things and the way my perspective evolves, I probably would have seen them differently 10 years ago. And in 10 years I will see things differently than I do today. You evolve in your mind, your art and what you put out there. It’s a reflection of how you are in the world.”
In 2016, Andersson opened First Class Tattoo in New York City, which he successfully ran as sole owner for eight years. First Class is a place where diverse and creative artists can grow together and help each other develop new skills and horizons in the tattoo industry. In this collaborative environment, a community has been created where artists can thrive and continually push the boundaries of their craft.
Andersson is known for his distinctive style, and his tattoos often feature intricate lines, rich shading, and elements from various art movements. His portfolio, showcased on platforms such as Instagram, offers a glimpse into his creative process and the depth of his artistic expression. Through his work, Andersson has expanded the possibilities of tattoo art and inspired both colleagues and enthusiasts to view tattoos as a sophisticated, meaningful form of personal and artistic expression.
