Tattooed Porcelain: Valeriia Puhach on Art Without Boundaries

How Ink and Clay Become Canvases for Emotion and Storytelling

Art is a language that takes many forms, and for Los Angeles-based tattoo artist and ceramicist Valeriia Puhach, that language flows seamlessly between ink and clay. With a background in academic art and architecture, she has carved out a unique path that merges tattooing and ceramics in ways that redefine self-expression. In this interview, Valeriia shares insights into her artistic journey, the philosophy behind her work, and how she balances these two creative worlds.

Your background is in academic art and architecture. How did that lead you to tattooing?

Valeriia: My journey started in Ukraine, where I studied at the Donbas National Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture. I learned classical art principles—composition, sculpture, balance—all of which deeply influenced my artistic approach. But it wasn’t until I discovered tattooing that I felt the full dynamic of working with a living, breathing canvas. Tattoos interact with the body in a way that’s constantly changing, and I was drawn to that sense of movement and evolution.

Your tattoo work is known for its freehand approach. What draws you to this technique?

Valeriia: I love the idea of creating art that flows naturally with the body rather than imposing a rigid design. Freehand tattooing allows me to work with a person’s unique form, making each piece completely one-of-a-kind. It’s a collaboration between me and the person wearing the tattoo, which is what makes it so special.

You’ve also returned to ceramics. How does that connect with your tattoo practice?

Valeriia: Ceramics give me the tactile experience that tattooing doesn’t—working directly with my hands, shaping something from raw material. But conceptually, both art forms share a lot. Skin and clay are both flexible yet strong, imperfect yet beautiful. That’s why I started my latest project: a ceramic collection inspired by tattoos. Each piece is like a body, marked with designs that tell a story.

Can you tell us more about your ceramic collection? What themes do you explore?

Valeriia: The collection is deeply symbolic. I use deep blue ink, reminiscent of classic Chinese porcelain, but instead of traditional motifs, I incorporate tattoo-like imagery. Some of my favorite pieces include:

• “The Dream Garden” – A vase with intertwined serpents and chrysanthemums, symbolizing choices and duality.
• “Poisoned Blade” – A plate featuring a snake coiling around a blade, representing resilience and survival.
• “Uroboros” – A small vase with a snake biting its own tail, illustrating cycles of self-destruction and rebirth.
• “The Holy Thorns” – A sacred-inspired piece reflecting pain and transformation.

Each of these ceramics tells a story—just like tattoos do.

You’re constantly evolving as an artist. What keeps you inspired?

Valeriia: The idea that art is never static. Whether it’s learning a new tattoo technique, experimenting with ceramics, or pushing my creative boundaries, I always want to be in motion. I believe a true artist never stops learning, and I want my work—whether on skin or clay—to reflect that constant growth.

What’s next for you? Any new projects on the horizon?

Valeriia: I’m always exploring new ways to merge tattoo culture with other artistic mediums. Right now, I’m focusing on expanding my ceramic work, bringing more sculptural elements into my tattoos, and maybe even experimenting with textiles. The possibilities are endless.

From tattoos that flow with the human form to ceramics that capture ink in a timeless medium, Valeriia Puhach is redefining artistic boundaries. Her work is a testament to the idea that art is transformation—whether through ink, clay, or the evolution of the artist herself.

Follow Valeriia’s journey on Instagram: @valeriatattooing