What Dreams May Come – Interview with Tattoo Artist Elena Fedchenko
Tattoo artist Elena Fedchenko is one of those people who are not afraid to dream big and embrace even the most daring ideas. She once left her office job to pursue a career in tattooing, gaining experience and eventually opening her own studio in Moscow. That chapter of her life was a valuable stepping stone, but today, Lena is embarking on a new journey in the United States, continuing to build her career in New York.
Lena recalls how she opened her own tattoo studio in Moscow several years ago. She saved up money, found a suitable location, and invested in the necessary equipment. One of the biggest challenges at the time was finding the right team. Lena was open to working with different artists, but she valued ingenuity above all. Even now, she deeply admires those who create their own original sketches rather than copying existing designs. She notes that many young tattoo artists are taking this approach, and even experienced professionals must stay adaptable to keep up with the evolving industry.
“When I first started working in tattooing, I often followed the style of my mentors. They guided me through many technical aspects of the craft, which was crucial for my development. Artistically, I felt more prepared because I had been drawing since childhood and had a basic art education. As I gained experience, I began developing my own style, focusing on botany and microrealism. These styles still inspire me today, and I believe they will remain relevant for years to come.”
Lena was drawn to botanical themes for several reasons. First, they allow for endless artistic experimentation. Second, there is an emotional depth to floral tattoos. She explains that flowers can evoke a sense of peace and balance on a subconscious level. For some, they represent childhood memories, while for others, they symbolize resilience and new beginnings. Botanical tattoos, she believes, can be a source of comfort and personal significance.
In Moscow, Lena developed a special project called “Portrait of a Flower,” which was dedicated to capturing the beauty and essence of plants in tattoos. The process involved visiting a flower shop with a client, selecting a flower together, and sketching it directly onto the skin before tattooing. The goal was to preserve the vitality of the flower in a permanent form. While this project was an important part of her artistic journey, it belonged to her time in Moscow. Now, in New York, Lena is focusing on new creative directions and evolving her work further.
“One of the most valuable aspects of my profession is earning a client’s trust. It takes years to build, but it’s essential. I’ve been in the tattoo industry for a long time, and I can often sense what kind of person will come to me for a session. Psychology plays a significant role in tattooing. If a client is nervous, I try to reassure them and offer support. If someone has doubts about getting a tattoo, I always encourage them to take their time. It’s important that both the artist and the client feel completely comfortable throughout the process.”
Lena’s career continues to flourish in New York, where she is embracing new opportunities and expanding her artistic vision. Her passion for tattooing remains as strong as ever, and she is excited to see where this next chapter will take her.
