Meet Eleonora Balducchi | Tattoo artist

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

Hi Eleonora, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Work-life balance has been an evolving journey for me, especially since becoming a mother. My son, who’s now seven and in second grade, is at the heart of everything I do and I love being able to be there for him. But balancing motherhood with a career as a tattoo artist, where clients and creative projects demand full attention, doesn’t always come easy and requires a certain degree of flexibility and adaptation.
Early on in my career, both in architecture and tattooing, I felt compelled to devote all my energy to the work. Over time, I realized that maintaining this intensity wasn’t sustainable. I learned the importance of boundaries, setting clear time frames for work and allowing space for personal life. Since becoming a parent, I’ve had to accept that unforeseen events often rock my routine and change my schedule. Whether it’s a last-minute school event, my son getting sick, or just the unpredictability of life with a child, I’ve learned to adapt quickly. I can’t always follow the same strict schedule I used to have, and that’s okay. Flexibility has become a key part of my approach, allowing me to be present for my family while also meeting the needs of my career.
At the same time, one of the hardest lessons I’m still learning is how to carve out time for myself which often feels like a luxury I can’t afford. Me-time is definitely still a work in progress, but finding that balance is crucial and I realize that taking care of yourself is what allows you to be fully present for others, both in your personal life and at work.
Living in cities like London, New York, and now Los Angeles, each with their own pace, has also shaped how I view balance. LA has given me more space to reflect and recalibrate, and I’ve embraced the idea that balance is about being adaptable and knowing that at different times, different aspects of life will take priority.

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 art is deeply rooted in my lifelong passion for creativity and self-expression. Technically I specialize in fine-line and single-needle techniques, which allow me to create detailed and intricate designs. I love working with both colors and black and grey ink on a variety of different subjects, but these days most clients come to me for botanical work and all things of nature. While my artistic focus on paper has primarily centered around figure drawings and, more specifically, portraits, I’ve developed a genuine passion for botanical art. I find this subject particularly captivating for tattoos, as it offers unique opportunities to harmonize with the natural shapes of the body. The fluidity and organic forms of botanical elements allow for a seamless integration of art and anatomy, making each piece a beautiful extension of the wearer. The dominant style of my work is realism, but I’m always open to combining different elements to create more unique pieces. But I believe that what truly distinguishes my work is my client-focused approach. For me, the main subject of the tattoo experience is my client and I take pride in the connections I build with them. Each tattoo session is more than just the application of ink; it’s about understanding the significance behind the design and ensuring that every piece tells a unique story. I strive to create a welcoming environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their ideas allowing me to translate them into art that reflects their individuality.

Getting to where I am today has been an amazing journey, not without its challenges. Transitioning from a stable career in architecture to tattooing at the age of 39 was a significant leap of faith and as you can imagine I faced challenges such as self-doubt and the struggle to establish myself in a competitive industry. However, I overcame these hurdles by remaining committed to my passion and embracing a growth mindset. Every setback became a lesson, reinforcing my determination to succeed.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that every tattoo is a collaboration—a fusion of my artistic vision and my clients’ stories. My practice prioritizes the client experience, ensuring they feel valued and heard throughout the process. My journey is about celebrating individuality and the connections we forge through art.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Los Angeles can offer an incredible selection of tourist attractions that would likely satisfy any taste, but I am personally a big fan of the Westside which is where I chose to live when i arrived here 6 years ago. When family and friends visit, I love to show them the vibrant spirit of Venice and Marina del Rey, two communities that have captured my heart. I love to grab a coffee at Flowerboy Project, a quirky coffee and flower shop that combines the artistry of floral design with a cozy café atmosphere, a perfect spot for both plant lovers and coffee enthusiasts like me! In Venice you can’t miss a walk on Abbott Kinney Boulevard with its eclectic mix of chic boutiques, local art galleries, and cozy cafés, soaking in the style and creativity that permeates the air. A stop at the newly opened The Venice Canvas, our charming yet sophisticated creative space, is a must. It’s a collaborative haven where tattoo artists, piercers and hairstylists come together to offer their services in a setting that’s as inspiring as the community around it. I would follow up with a walk in the Venice Canals Historic District, with its picture-perfect bridges and colorful houses. The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a feast for the senses, bustling with street performers, local vendors, and a diverse crowd that embodies the Venice eclectic vibe. And no visit would be complete without a trip to Marina del Rey, where the waterfront views and relaxing vibe create the perfect balance to the city’s energy. Here, at Pizzana, you’ll find some of the best pizza in town—and trust me, I’m picky when it comes to pizza! Each moment spent in these neighborhoods highlights not just their beauty but also the sense of community and creativity that makes them truly special.

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?
This is always a difficult question because so many are the people who deserve a mention, but this time I want to dedicate my shoutout to my clients. Their trust and kindness have made this journey possible for me. Each person who walks into the studio carries their own story, and it’s an honor to be part of their lives through the art of tattooing. Their willingness to share their visions and personal meanings has taught me so much about resilience, vulnerability, and the power of connection.
I’ve been incredibly lucky to meet so many amazing people along this path. Every interaction—whether brief or long-lasting—has offered me invaluable lessons and has enriched my life and artistry, reminding me of the importance of community in both personal and professional growth.

Instagram: @balducchitattoo

Image Credits
Personal photo: Madison Truscan, @madisonfromdallas