Meet Valeriia Puhach | Tattoo artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Valeriia Puhach and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Valeriia, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
From a young age, art has always been a part of who I am. I found myself constantly drawing and observing the world around me, noticing the intricate details, colors, and shapes that others often overlook. Being a creative person in a family focused on business and practical matters was sometimes challenging, as pursuing art doesn’t always guarantee financial stability.

When it came time to choose a university, I decided to enroll in an architectural program. It was a way to study art while presenting it as a more serious and acceptable choice to my parents. This period of my life allowed me to explore my passions and gain a deeper understanding of myself and what I truly wanted.

During my second year at the academy, I felt a strong urge to rebel and try something different. This led me to the world of tattoos. I immersed myself in learning about different tattoo styles, following renowned tattoo artists, and it quickly became my new passion. Unable to find a design that truly resonated with me, I decided to draw my own and have it tattooed.

The tattoo artist I approached was impressed with my design and suggested that I should try tattooing myself. Intrigued by the idea, I purchased a simple tattoo machine and a few inks. This new experience completely transformed me. I realized that tattooing was my true calling and who I was meant to be.

Embarking on this path was not easy, especially without a mentor or formal apprenticeship, which is not common in Ukraine. I had to figure out everything on my own—how to use different needles, work with colors on skin, and understand various skin reactions. It took me several years just to grasp the basics.

In the world of art, learning is a lifelong journey. It grants you the freedom to express yourself and gain a deeper understanding of who you are. For me, the tattoo industry encompasses multiple careers within one person. I need to be an artist, constantly honing my drawing skills. I must develop my technique in tattooing and have a solid understanding of human anatomy. Simultaneously, I am managing my own business, maintaining social media accounts where I become a photographer, videographer, and even a model/actor. Additionally, being a bit of a psychologist is crucial since I work closely with people, and their emotions and reactions play a significant role in my work.

The workload and stress in this field are immense, but what keeps me going is the constant intrigue and excitement. Every day is different, unlike any other, and that’s what I love most about my career as a tattoo artist.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My journey as a tattoo artist in Ukraine has been filled with challenges, but it has shaped me into the artist I am today. The path to success in the tattoo industry is not an easy one. It takes years of hard work, building a portfolio, and honing your skills before gaining recognition.

One of the things that sets me apart is my passion for colors. Customers often tell me, “I love your colors.” Studying colorism and academic arts has given me a deep understanding of how to create vibrant and eye-catching compositions in tattoos. I simply do what I love, and people can feel that passion in my work.

Relocating to Los Angeles has been a turning point in my career. The energy and inspiration I find in this city fuel my creativity, and I am grateful for the opportunities it has brought me.

Throughout my journey, the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that anything is possible. I’ve realized that I can build a successful art career, collaborate with talented artists from around the world, and even move to a different country with no connections. My unwavering belief in myself has given me the strength to overcome challenges, including leaving my home in Ukraine due to the war. I knew that I could achieve anything I set my mind to.

Today, I am fortunate to work at “Sashatattooing Gallery,” one of the best studios in the world. I have had the honor of judging tattoo conventions and participating in various events. Reflecting on my journey, I am driven to share my knowledge with others who are seeking to learn, just as I was eight years ago. In Ukraine, I taught apprentices about color tattoos and body art, and now I aspire to continue passing on my expertise to those who are eager to grow in this field.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Arrival and Venice Beach To kick off the trip, we would head straight to Venice Beach, a place brimming with energy and a melting pot of cultures. We’d spend the day strolling along the boardwalk, soaking up the sun on the sandy beach, and witnessing the mesmerizing sunset. We might even try our hand at skateboarding and enjoy the vibrant street performances that add to the unique atmosphere.

Day 2: “Mom Please” – A Taste of Home
For a truly heartwarming experience, we would visit a recently opened Ukrainian restaurant called “Mom Please.” This establishment holds a special place in my heart as it was started by a family who fled their homeland due to war. Their traditional dishes are prepared with love, and the warm ambiance feels like a cozy island of familiarity. We would indulge in authentic flavors and savor the deliciousness of home-cooked meals.

Day 3: Cinespia – Movie Magic Under the Stars
On the weekend, we would immerse ourselves in the nostalgia of classic films from the 90s and early 2000s with Cinespia. This outdoor cinema experience takes place in a picturesque setting where we can set up a picnic blanket, relax with friends, and enjoy timeless movies under the stars. The laughter, the shared moments, this is just a must do experience.

Day 4: Exploring the Arts District
We would dedicate a day to exploring the vibrant and eclectic Arts District. From its stunning street art to its unique galleries and boutiques, this neighborhood is a haven for creativity.

Day 5: Hiking Adventure at Griffith Park
To experience the natural beauty of the area, we would embark on a hiking adventure in Griffith Park. We would explore the trails, connect with nature, and capture some amazing photos. And of course everyone live to take pictures with the Hollywood sign.

Day 6: Nightlife in West Hollywood at “Rocco’s”
We would dance the night away at iconic venues, enjoy live music performances of the queens.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch at “Love you Latte”
On the last day, we would bid farewell with a memorable brunch at the best brunch place in my opinion. We would reminisce about the incredible week we had. Delicious food would be the best ending before departure.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
In the early years of my tattooing career, I was deeply inspired by a renowned Ukrainian tattoo artist named Andrew Borisyuk. I admired his exceptional talent and longed to meet him someday. When I moved to Kyiv, I had the incredible opportunity to work alongside Andrew for several years, and we became close friends. He unknowingly became a mentor to me, and his artistry taught me the importance of precision and attention to detail. His influence continues to shape my work and reminds me of the boundless possibilities within the world of tattooing. I am immensely grateful for the time I spent with Andrew, as his guidance and friendship have been invaluable to my artistic journey.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valeriatattooing

Image Credits
Photo by : Anastasia Kuzmichevskaya