Meet Agustina Royo | Painter & Tattoo Artist

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

Hi Agustina, what are you inspired by?
Nature plays a central role in my artistic inspiration. Growing up in Patagonia, I was immersed in vast landscapes—rugged mountains, open skies, and raw, untouched wilderness. What fascinates me most is how nature can be both serene and psychedelic, with its unique, intricate details and unexpected forms. The patterns and colors found in the natural world are endlessly interesting, and they constantly challenge the way I see and create.

I also draw inspiration from meaningful connections. Whether it’s with people, places, or emotions, those moments of genuine interaction spark new ideas and perspectives in my work. There’s something powerful about the exchange of energy in a connection—it fuels creativity and adds depth to what I create. It reminds me that art, much like life, is a reflection of the bonds we form and the experiences we share.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is rooted in both tattooing and oil painting, two mediums that allow me to express creativity in ways that feel true to who I am. What makes my work unique is the attention to detail and emotional depth I try to bring into every piece. I also enjoy adding a psychedelic touch, often blending themes of nature and the matrix, seeing my art as a portal that connects them.

I started painting at 14 in a private studio, where I first learned the basics of oil painting. Over the years, I had the opportunity to work with a few mentors who helped me develop my skills. Five years ago, I began tattooing, thanks to the guidance of a mentor who believed in me. Seeing my progress over time has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I’m grateful for the journey.

One of my biggest challenges was not getting a traditional tattoo apprenticeship, but I was lucky enough to have a friend who believed in me and helped me get started. That support made all the difference and allowed me to overcome that initial roadblock.

Throughout this process, I’ve learned that consistency and commitment are key to success. Patience is something you can learn, and when you focus your energy on something you care about, you can achieve more than you realize. These lessons have shaped my path as an artist.

At the heart of what I do is kindness. I believe in conscious kindness and respect, not just in the art I create but in how I interact with my clients. My goal is always to provide not only a great tattoo but also an experience that makes people feel comfortable and at ease. Tattoos were a big part of my own healing journey, helping me become more confident and take ownership of my body, and I hope to offer that same sense of empowerment to others.
I love meeting new people, learning about their stories, and leaving a part of myself in the art I create for them. Every tattoo is a new connection, and that’s something I truly value.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For a week-long trip in Los Angeles, I would start with some outdoor activities. A must-do hike would be to the Griffith Observatory, where you can soak in breathtaking views of the city. I’d also take them on some of the other great hikes in Griffith Park, which offer beautiful scenery and a chance to explore the area’s natural beauty. Additionally, we’d visit the Los Angeles Forest, where you can feel like you’re outside the city while being surrounded by mountains. After our hikes, we could stop by Maru Coffee for some people-watching and to enjoy the local atmosphere.

I would take them to explore LA’s rich art scene, with visits to places like The Broad Museum for contemporary art and LACMA for a diverse mix of works. A trip to the Arts District would be perfect for checking out street art and galleries that reflect LA’s creativity. We would also make a stop at a tattoo studio to experience some of LA’s unique tattoo culture, something close to my heart.

For some downtime, we would head out to the beach—Zuma Beach in Malibu or the queer-friendly Ginger Rogers Beach (the queer section of Will Rogers Beach) would be my top picks. Both offer a beautiful, more peaceful beach experience, perfect for enjoying the sun and the ocean without the crowds. Watching the sunset at Zuma Beach would be a great way to end the day.

To mix things up, I would take them to the Farmers Market at The Grove for local produce and tasty bites. We could also check out a nearby flea market to hunt for unique finds and local treasures. These spots really showcase LA’s local, creative vibe.

For a fun night out, a comedy show or a movie screening at a cozy theater like The Vista would round off the week perfectly—just a chance to relax and take in some LA culture in a more laid-back way.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to the mentors who have shaped my journey, providing guidance and encouragement that have influenced both my art and my life. I’m also incredibly grateful to my close friends and family, who have always been my biggest supporters, offering unwavering belief in my creative pursuits.

Website: https://www.artgustina.com

Instagram: @artgustina