elvira fraelic
Editor's Notes
Carsten Augustenborg
Welcome to our 29th Christmas issue packed with extra incredible content
This festive season, we're thrilled to bring you another 100 pages of incredible tattoo artistry and captivating stories—completely free, as always! And making this edition extra special is the stunning and talented Elvira Fraelic gracing our front cover. Known for her mesmerizing work and artistic vision, Elvira embodies the spirit of creativity and excellence that defines the tattoo industry.
Inside this holiday edition, you'll find a treasure chest of inspiration, including breathtaking tattoo designs, exclusive interviews, and profiles of some of the most talented artists in the world. Whether you're a tattoo enthusiast or an artist yourself, this edition celebrates the diverse beauty of tattoo culture and its endless evolution.
Elvira Fraelic's cover feature offers a deep dive into her artistry, inspirations, and creative journey Her passion for her craft shines through in every design, making her a true standout in the tattoo community. As you explore the pages of this Christmas edition, you'll discover more about her unique approach and the stories behind her exceptional work.
This edition is more than just a magazine it's a celebration of the artistry, passion, and dedication that make tattooing one of the most powerful forms of self-expression. From in-depth artist interviews to exclusive features on rising stars and seasoned legends, every page is packed with the stories and designs that make our community so vibrant.
As 2024 comes to a close, we want to thank each of you our readers, artists, and supporters. Your enthusiasm drives us to continue showcasing the best the tattoo world has to offer. We hope this holiday edition adds a little extra inspiration to your season and celebrates the magic of tattoos during this festive time of year.
Enjoy, and from all of us at My Tattoo Inc., happy holidays!
Stay inspired and keep the ink flowing, Carsten Augustenborg
Founder, My Tattoo Inc.
Elvira F
Can you share how your journey as a tattoo artist began? What led you to pursue this career?
- Before I started tattooing, I studied art for almost 10 years. I worked as an art teacher, freelance illustrator, and designer, painted portraits, and even did decorations for nightclubs back in my hometown. I was always curious and wanted to try as many art mediums as possible, and tattooing seemed to be one of the most mysterious ones. The idea of altering someone's body forever was terrifying but very intriguing. Additionally, I always wanted to have my own schedule and the freedom to create my own art.
Your tattoo style is distinct and unique. How would you describe it, and how did it evolve over time?
- My style is a combination of black and grey realism and graphic work, with surrealistic elements and soft 3D shading, inspired mostly by mythology and classic paintings/sculptures.
When working with new clients, how do you collaborate to ensure their ideas are represented while staying true to your artistic vision?
- I'm privileged to work mostly with clients who fully trust my vision, and of course, my goal is to make my clients happy.
Elvira Fraelic
As a female artist in a male-dominated industry, have you encountered any obstacles? How did you navigate through them?
- I'm from a country where women are generally very competitive. I knew from the beginning that you have to invest in your hard skills and constantly improve them in order to be taken seriously. Having a strong artistic background helped me a lot at the beginning of my tattoo career. Not to mention, I was very lucky with my guides and teachers throughout my career. Currently, I'm surrounded by the most awesome, talented, and supportive male artists from The Union Tattoo (and the sweetest junior artist, Nikole ��). Truly, it's the best team you could imagine.
What advice would you offer to newcomers in the tattoo industry who are looking to build a successful career?
- Constantly improve your hard skills; that's a must. Prepare to be an artist, a business owner, and a social media manager, but don't forget to stay a nice person. Take care of your body. Be curious. Experiment. If deep inside you know you have something unique to offer to this industry, to your clients, or to random people who will see your art, don't be afraid to follow that call. Work on developing your own unique style. Make art out of anything you do, even if it doesn't pay off in the beginning. You'll eventually find your audience.
Many tattoos are tied to personal stories. Have any client stories left a lasting impression on you?
- I'll never forget one client who came to get a memorial tattoo for her son, who passed away at a devastatingly young age. She brought a small pillow made from her son's tshirt and hugged it while I was tattooing her. It's been the most emotional tattoo session I've had in my life. But I know for sure that tattoo helped that lady to process her grief, at least in some part, and I'm glad I was there to help her.
What's next for you and your art? Do you have any exciting upcoming projects or plans that you'd like to share with our readers?
- Right now, I'm working on my own Monomyth Oracle deck. Each card is handdrawn and represents a certain point in a spiritual journey. In order to make each card truthful and meaningful, you kind of have to go through the illustrated story yourself in one way or another. It is challenging, and I know this is going to take some time and patience. But I'm very excited about this project, both as an artist and as a witch.
Do you have a personal favorite tattoo you've done, or one that holds special significance to you?
- I have too many! One of them is a Death tarot card back piece – that was a super fun project. I also love all my double exposure ladies.
Are there any unforgettable stories or experiences from your career as a tattoo artist that stand out to you?
- Tattooing during a metal band concert, in the dark, with a single lamp over the tattoo table while the music was blasting. Fun, but never again.
elvira _ fraelic _ tattoo
Elvira Fraelic
Can you tell us about your journey into the tattoo industry? What inspired you to become a tattoo artist?
I grew up in a very creative environment My father had a strong interest in tattooing and decided to try it out He bought a kit and started tattooing some of his friends This was in the early '90s, when tattooing didn't have the same regulations and mindset around it that we see today I think he really wanted to pursue it as a way to support our family, but it simply wasn't a stable source of income, so he kept it as a hobby alongside his job
I have been drawing for as long as I can remember While everyone else was out playing sports, I felt more comfortable in the company of pencils and paper When I was around 12, my father started asking if I might be interested in tattooing. He often said that the younger I started, the better I could get, probably because he was projecting some of his own dreams and goals onto me. That might sound like a bad thing, but I'm truly grateful he did because it helped me find the most amazing career path. So, at the age of 14, I gave it a try and continued tattooing at home until I was 19, when I was offered a full-time position in a studio.
How would you describe your signature tattoo style, and how did you develop it over time?
My style has developed a lot over the years In the beginning, I would do just about anything the client asked for, but gradually, I found myself drawn to realism In 2012, after giving birth to my daughter, I went through postpartum depression Balancing motherhood and my desire to grow as a tattoo artist was incredibly challenging I felt stuck at home with the baby, and guilty whenever I was at the studio
To cope, I started creating designs that reflected how I felt It began as a way to process my emotions visually After a while, I noticed that these designs resonated with others, and they started getting booked I often call this style "abstract realism," where I use realistic reference photos of faces with strong emotion, contrasted by abstract pencil strokes that break up the clean, perfect image Through doing so many faces, clients began requesting more personal portraits So in recent years, I've been creating a mix between abstract realism and classic portraits
What was the first tattoo you ever did, and how do you feel about it looking back?
The first tattoo I ever did was on my father. At first, I thought the idea of touching people and dealing with blood was unpleasant, but I eventually gave in and tattooed a small dragon on his leg. Looking back, it wasn't exactly a masterpiece, but my father praised it as if it were. That early experience was meaningful; it gave me confidence and a sense of purpose, even though my skills were still raw. It's humbling to see how far I've come from that first tattoo, and it reminds me of the growth and dedication needed to reach this point.
As a female tattoo artist, have you faced any challenges or barriers in the industry? How have you overcome them?
Being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field has definitely come with its challenges Early on, I encountered stereotypes and often felt an added pressure to prove myself more than my male counterparts On top of that, balancing this career with motherhood added another layer As both a mother and the primary provider for my family, managing the convention life I deeply wanted to pursue was challenging Working at respected conventions like those in London, Paris, and Gods of Ink gave me a sense of self-worth and confidence but also brought a strong sense of guilt as I tried to be there for my family
I've overcome these challenges by staying focused on my goals and building a supportive network of colleagues and clients Their encouragement has helped me push through stereotypes and doubts, allowing me to grow and succeed in a career that's incredibly meaningful to me
What's your creative process when working with a new client? How do you balance their vision with your artistic touch?
When working with clients, I prioritize understanding the emotions and story behind their tattoo idea. This foundation allows me to interpret their vision in a way that aligns with my artistic style. Often, clients give me a theme or general direction and trust me to bring it to life. This approach creates a collaborative process where my creativity flourishes while ensuring the tattoo remains deeply personal to them
Do you have any personal favorite tattoos or designs that hold a special meaning to you?
Some of my most memorable pieces are those connected to meaningful personal stories I'm especially moved by memorial tattoos or pieces representing personal struggles These tattoos resonate deeply with me because they go beyond aesthetics; they are tools for healing and remembrance Each one reminds me of the privilege I have in helping someone tell their story through art
What advice would you give to aspiring tattoo artists who are just starting out in this field?
For anyone new to tattooing, I'd stress the importance of mastering the basics and having a genuine respect for the craft. Specifically for portraits, I would say that before diving into personalized portraits, it's helpful to practice on general portraits to build up your skills and confidence. Don't hesitate to reach out to experienced artists for guidance and spend time observing their work. I've held many seminars where I share tips and my personal experiences with newer artists, and one thing I always emphasize is to be patient with yourself and give yourself time to grow Sometimes, saying "no" to a project when you're not fully ready is as important as saying "yes "
Can you share any memorable experiences from your tattoo career, whether it's working on a particular project or meeting someone influential?
One unforgettable experience in my career was winning "Best of Day" at Le Mondial/Tattoo Planetarium in Paris. With over 550 selected artists, Paris is known for having one of the highest standards in Europe, so receiving this recognition was incredibly humbling. Being recognized by the community like that meant so much to me Through my journey, I've had the chance to meet many amazing artists, both through conventions and my sponsorship with Cheyenne Working alongside and learning from these talents has been inspiring and has truly pushed me to grow as an artist
Where do you see yourself and your art going in the next few years? Any exciting future projects or plans you'd like to share with us?
Looking ahead, I'd love to bring my work to new regions, particularly the United States, and maybe explore some longer-term projects, like full-body tattoos that we could showcase across different conventions I'm also excited about evolving my style further, possibly through more collaborations that challenge my creative limits. My goal is to keep growing and refining my art while connecting with people from all over the world.
Tattoos are deeply personal for many people. Have you encountered a tattoo story that really touched you?
Yes, many of the tattoos I do reflect the deep and sometimes dark emotions people are working through. One moment that truly moved me was when a young woman reached out to me, wanting a tattoo to symbolize the difficult journey she'd faced after experiencing assault We scheduled the tattoo to be done at a convention, and during a break, I was speaking to a visitor, unaware of his connection to my client When I turned back, I saw her in tears and shock; it turned out that the visitor was the same person who had assaulted her
The situation deeply affected me, but what struck me even more was the response from my colleagues After I quietly shared what had happened, several male tattoo artists immediately stopped what they were doing, found the man, and escorted him out of the convention It was a powerful reminder of how this industry often comes together to create a safe and supportive environment, prioritizing the client's well-being above all else
Kati 777: Germany’s Iconic Inkmodel and Tattoo Artist
Kati 777 is a name that resonates deeply within the tattoo community, both in Germany and around the globe. As a dual force of creativity a talented tattoo artist and an inspiring inkmodel Kati has carved her unique space in the world of body art With her striking appearance, captivating personality, and undeniable artistic talent, she is a true icon of self-expression and individuality.
As a tattoo artist, Kati's work speaks for itself. Her ability to bring bold, intricate designs to life on skin has made her highly sought after. With a deep passion for the art form, she pours her heart and soul into every piece she creates, ensuring each tattoo is as unique as the person wearing it. Her mastery of detail and skill in blending styles make her work stand out in an ever-growing tattoo industry.
Beyond her talent with a tattoo machine, Kati 777 has also earned a reputation as an influential inkmodel. Her vibrant personality and stunning inked aesthetic have captured the attention of fans worldwide. Whether she’s in front of the camera or showcasing her designs on social media, she embodies the spirit of selfexpression and confidence. Her tattoos are a canvas that tells her story—each design a celebration of her individuality and creativity. Kati's dual roles as a tattoo artist and model exemplify her versatility and passion for the tattoo world. She serves as an inspiration to both aspiring artists and those who embrace body art as a powerful form of personal storytelling. Keep an eye on this trailblazer as she continues to push boundaries, redefine standards, and inspire the tattoo community worldwide. Whether you're looking to get inked or simply admire her artistry, Kati 777 is a name you’ll want to remember.
Chris Yze
View more of my artwork here;
Kimmie Spiz
Denmark’s Brutal Death Metal Titans;
Deadflesh celebrate 30 years of musical mayhem! From the historic town of Roskilde, Denmark, emerges Deadflesh, a band that has been delivering crushing apocalyptic riffs and brutal guttural vocals since 1994. Founded by Keld and Allan, this brutal old-school death metal outfit has carved out its place in the metal scene with relentless energy and uncompromising heaviness Over the decades, Deadflesh has annihilated stages across Denmark and even ventured onto German soil, sharing the spotlight with legendary acts such as Obituary, Artillery, and Blood Red Throne. Their 2016 album, Sic Semper Tyrannis, featured a standout moment for fans a collaboration with Michael Stützer of Artillery, who delivered blistering solos on the track “Betrayer.”
Pumpehuset Obituary
With five albums under their belt, including their latest, The Fifth Assault (2022), Deadflesh continues to uphold their reputation as “The Danish Bolt Thrower.” This nickname isn’t just a nod to their crushing warthemed lyrics and relentless sound but also to their lineup, which boasts a powerful female bassist as a pendant to Bolt Thrower’s Jo Bench. With a earwreckening bulldozing bass, Hell-E sets her mark on the Deadflesh battlefield.
In 2020, the band welcomed a new sologuitarist, Rasmus, whose exceptional talent adds fresh intensity to their sound. With new tracks already in the works for an upcoming release, the future of Deadflesh promises to be as unrelenting as their past. Dive into their heavy, war-fueled world on their homepage at deadflesh.net, or experience their raw energy live through performances available on YouTube.
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Q: Congratulations on 30 years of Deadflesh! Looking back, how has the band evolved since its formation in 1994, both musically and in terms of the overall scene you’ve been a part of?
A: First of all, thank you for approaching us with this interview. We really appreciate it! Yes it’s been 30 years now since our egg hatched It has been a Long journey with ups and downs, but i think that our band has evolved in a good direction. We have over the years become better musicians, writes better riffs and have a more stable blueprint for creating, than in the early years. But i guess that is quite normal for bands that has survived as long as we have. Over the years we have had a lot of good people in and out of the band, but our current Line-up, i think, are now peaking in terms of commitment and talent. I dare to say that we have a really good team!
Q: Your music has always been known for its crushing riffs and brutal guttural vocals. What would you say has been the driving force behind Deadflesh's unique sound, and how do you continue to stay true to your roots while pushing boundaries?
A: It’s very easy to stay in the right lane and continue to create in a fashion that we are used to We write music that we love and tries to keep it simple. It needs to display that kind of aggressiveness that we hear in our favourite bands; Bolt Thrower, Obituary, Six Feet Under, just to mention a few. The Old School stuff has always been close to our hearts because it’s simple and brutal. I don’t think that we try to push the boundaries and evolve from album to album. We have a formula that we sticks to, and we will likely not change that as long as Deadflesh exist as a band!
Q: Deadflesh has played alongside iconic bands like Obituary, Artillery, and Blood Red Throne. What’s been one of the most memorable experiences from these collaborations, and how have these encounters influenced your own music?
A: We have been very lucky to play with those mentioned bands. It has been great experiences to talk to and be around the guys that created those tracks that we have been listening to and admired a million times. It was a very special experience when we had the honour of playing as support band to Obituary at Pumpehuset in Copenhagen. Carrying our instruments and amps into the venue while they were on stage doing soundcheck, and playing “Turned Inside Out” was very surreal and something i will never forget. They were so cool and down to earth, and their sologuitarist Kenny even played their show in a Deadflesh shirt. That was a day to remember!
Q: In 2016, you released “Sic Semper Tyrannis,” featuring a collaboration with Michael Stützer of Artillery. What was it like working with such a legend, and how did it impact the creation of the album’s tracks, especially “Betrayer”?
A: First i was in disbelief that he even bothered to help us out with “Betrayer” It was an absolutely insane experience when this metal icon walked into our rehearsal room where we recorded “Sic Semper Tyrannis”. He listened two times to the riffs, we want him to solo on, and then crushing it like he did so brilliant. That was professionalism in its highest form. That man is a genious on guitar, and we will be forever grateful that he helped us!
Q: You once released a Christmas song—something not typically associated with the brutal death metal scene! How did that idea come about, and how did your fans react to this unexpected holiday offering?
A: Yes that’s true. We actually wrote a Christmas song. My older brother asked us if we could come up with the intro music to a Christmas Calendar he was doing. We had just finished the “Sic Semper Tyrannis” album, so we scissored out some drums from a couple of tracks, put them together, wrote a couple of riffs and a lyric. And then we had the track “Merry Fleshmas”. It has been posted on our SoMe pages ever since in December! It was a funny thing to do! I think it was Okay’ed by a lot of our followers. Maybe some sees it as an abomination, but i personally like it!
Q: Many death metal bands tend to gravitate toward dark, heavy themes, but you've managed to carve out a distinct identity within the genre. Where do you draw inspiration for your lyrics, and how do they reflect your personal views on life, society, and the world?
A: Yes i guess there is a tendency for metal bands to choose dark topics such as satanism, gore or other sinister things, to go along with their music. I think that Deadflesh does not differ from this. In the early years, or let's say the first two albums, i was writing more gore themed lyrics. From World War III and on, we changed to lyrics about war, conflicts, injustice and a more realistic approach. I guess we were inspired a lot from our favourite band; Bolt Thrower who also writes about war Our music are said to mimic them alot, so to do this kind of lyrics was an easy choise. Often reality are way more brutal than imagination!
Q: As Deadflesh celebrates 30 years, what's next for the band? Are there any new projects on the horizon, or perhaps plans for a massive anniversary tour that will bring the mayhem to fans around the globe?
A: We are currently in the process of writing a new album. We hope that we will be able to soon enter a studio and record 10 or 11 tracks. We also had the idea to make some kind of a "best of" album, where we pick a couple of tracks from all our albums and then re-record them as a celebration to our 30 years. And offcourse we then want to go out and play live as much as we can. A tour would be great, but it has been quite difficult to get jobs after the pandemic. There is a lot of bands out there fighting for jobs, and maybe the Old School stuff doesn't stand as close to the hearts of many bookers, as the newer genres like; Metal Core, Symphonic or Folk Metal. But we are always ready to contribute with mayhem to the world, so stay tuned and support your local underground Death Metal bands!
Sylvanas The Goddess
THEME METAL INK PAGES 2024
Why Is Black Sabbath with Ozzy Osbourne the Cult Era?
Black Sabbath with Ozzy Osbourne is often regarded as the cult era of heavy metal for good reason As the pioneers of the genre, their dark, doom-laden riffs, eerie lyrics, and Ozzy’s unmistakable voice created a sound that defined an entire movement. Albums like Paranoid and Master of Reality weren’t just records they were revolutionary blueprints for generations of metal bands to follow.
During this era, Black Sabbath delved into themes of rebellion, occultism, and societal struggles, resonating deeply with fans who sought something raw, intense, and different Ozzy’s theatrical presence and the band's groundbreaking sound turned them into legends, and this period cemented their place as the ultimate icons of heavy metal history. The legacy of this cult era lives on forever.
Serjvinni
Hottest band in the world - KISS
TAMPA TATTOO TAMPA TATTOO TAMPA TATTOO BURT TATTOOIZÉ
TATTOOIZÉ BURT TATTOOIZÉ
CALLING ALL CALLING ALL INKED ARTISTS INKED ARTISTS AND MODELS! AND MODELS!
YOUR JOURNEY TO BECOMING YOUR JOURNEY TO BECOMING A PART OF WOBA MODELS A PART OF WOBA MODELS MAY BE CLOSER THAN YOU MAY BE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK! THINK! INKMODELS
If you're an extraordinary inked artist or model with a
If you're an extraordinary inked artist or model with a If an or model with passion for showcasing your art and stories, we want to passion for showcasing your art and stories, we want to passion showcasing your and stories, hear from you. We're currently on the lookout for model hear from you. We're currently on the lookout for model hear you. the lookout model photos that capture the essence of various themes, photos that capture the essence of various themes, photos that capture the essence various themes, including Christmas, Easter Bunnies, In the GYM, Cosplay, including Christmas, Easter Bunnies, In the GYM, Cosplay, Christmas, Bunnies, the GYM, Cosplay, and Bikerlife. and Bikerlife. and Bikerlife.
Dollyann
Photo: Picturesinblood
Reach Your Target Audience
Promote your brand, studio or convention in My Tattoo Inc.
Welcome to our My Tattoo Inc. magazine page where you can showcase your brand or tattoo convention to our readers. This is a great opportunity for you to get noticed by a wider audience and promote your products or event.
To have your brand or tattoo convention featured on these pages, simply contact us for further information and availability. We are happy to discuss the details with you and help you get the exposure you need. Don't miss this chance to connect with our readers and get your name out there. Contact us at ca@mytattooinc.com to learn more.
ALEX MORO TATTOO
A True Master of Realism in Tattoo Art
1Orange County, California, is home to one of the most talented tattoo artists in the world, Alex Moro, born Aleksandr Morozov. With over 35 awards from tattoo conventions across the globe, Alex has solidified his place as a powerhouse in the tattoo industry. Specializing in both color and black-and-gray realism, his work is renowned for its breathtaking detail, bold vibrancy, and extraordinary precision.
Alex’s artistic journey began in Russia, where he graduated from art school and started his tattoo career in 2009. Since then, his passion and dedication have propelled him to international success.
Now residing in Southern California, Alex is a sponsored artist for some of the industry’s leading brands, including World Famous Ink, Inkeeze, and VladBlad Irons.
What sets Alex apart is his ability to create tattoos that are not only stunning but also enduring. His tattoos are designed to remain vivid and saturated for years, defying the common misconception that tattoos require constant touch-ups. Whether you’re seeking lifelike portraits, vivid designs inspired by comic books or video games, or a fresh cover-up of an older tattoo, Alex’s creative expertise ensures each piece is a masterpiece.
While realism is his specialty, Alex’s talent extends to merging styles and crafting unique designs tailored to each client. However, his focus remains on high-level artistry, which means he doesn’t work on ornamental tattoos, dotwork, lettering, or old-school designs. His commitment to creating one-ofa-kind art has earned him respect and recognition in the tattoo community, not only as an artist but also as a judge at conventions worldwide.
For anyone seeking a tattoo experience that combines professionalism, creativity, and world-class skill, Alex Moro is a name you can trust. Each tattoo is a testament to his artistic mastery and a piece of wearable art that tells a story.
Follow Alex’s incredible journey and explore his stunning portfolio you won’t be disappointed. Whether you're in Southern California or traveling to Orange County, a session with Alex is worth every moment. Get ready to turn your tattoo vision into reality with one of the best in the industry!
Art By @egon_weis
@egon weis
@jfrandall tattoos
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Penny Slice
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Welcome to the My Tattoo Inc. Forum group on Facebook!
This vibrant community is a gathering place for avid readers and passionate tattoo lovers alike. Here, you have the opportunity to share your own tattoo stories and showcase your pictures, connecting with fellow enthusiasts from around the globe. We believe that every tattoo has a unique tale to tell, and we want to hear yours. Whether it's a memorable experience, a personal journey, or simply a striking design, our forum provides a platform for you to contribute and engage with like-minded individuals. But that's not all! Your stories and pictures may even have the chance to be featured in one of our renowned magazines. If your submission aligns with our vision and captures the essence of tattoo culture, it could be showcased for a wider audience to appreciate and celebrate. So join us in the My Tattoo Inc. Forum group on Facebook and be a part of this dynamic community. Share your passion, connect with others, and let your unique tattoo tales be heard and admired.
