Meet Olga Leonova

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

Hi Olga, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk has played a significant and transformative role in my life and career. I began my professional journey as an architect, a field that many would consider stable and promising. However, despite the apparent security and the respect that came with the title, I found myself increasingly dissatisfied and unfulfilled. The creative constraints and the corporate nature of architecture left me longing for a more personal and expressive form of artistry.

Taking the leap to transition from architecture to tattoo artistry was a considerable risk. It meant leaving behind a steady career, the comfort of a predictable path, and years of formal education to pursue a field where I would essentially be starting from scratch. There were no guarantees of success, and the challenges were plenty—from mastering a new craft to building a clientele.

However, the risk was worth it because it allowed me to pursue my passion for art in a way that felt genuine and authentic. Becoming a tattoo artist has not only brought me a sense of fulfillment and happiness that I lacked in my previous career, but it also taught me the value of embracing uncertainty and trusting in my abilities to create a path where one didn’t seem obvious. The risks I took to change my career have led me to a place where I can connect with people on a personal level, using my art to tell their stories, which is something I could never have achieved behind a drafting table.

In essence, taking risks has been integral to my growth, both as an artist and as an individual. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, forced me to learn and adapt, and ultimately allowed me to find a career that aligns with my true passion and values.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey as a tattoo artist has been anything but easy. I began tattooing during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when everything felt uncertain. Just as things started to settle, the war forced me to leave my country, uprooting my life and challenging me to navigate through difficult circumstances. Despite these hardships, my passion for art has remained a constant source of motivation and strength. I know exactly what I want—to create meaningful art that resonates deeply with people—and this drive keeps me pushing forward, no matter what obstacles arise.

What sets my work apart is my focus on graphic realism, particularly portraits. I take great pride in the level of detail and precision I bring to each piece, which stems from my background in studying anatomy. This knowledge helps me design tattoos that flow naturally with the body’s contours, enhancing the overall aesthetic. I personally create all of my drawings, dedicating significant time and effort to ensure that each design is a true representation of the client’s vision and story. For me, it’s not just about putting ink on skin; it’s about crafting a work of art that holds deep personal meaning for the wearer.

I refuse to compromise on the quality or integrity of my work. I would never create something I don’t fully believe in. What matters most to me is that I can help people express their stories through tattoos that are not only visually striking but also meticulously crafted with high attention to detail. Each piece I create is a testament to my commitment to art, and I’m excited to continue evolving, refining my skills in graphic realism, and bringing people’s stories to life through my work.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Since I’m still relatively new to LA, having been here for less than a year, I haven’t explored every corner of the city yet. However, I would love to take my best friend to some of the most iconic and inspiring spots I’ve come to appreciate so far. We’d start with a visit to the Santa Monica Pier to soak in the lively atmosphere and enjoy the ocean breeze, followed by a trip to Malibu Beach for some relaxation and breathtaking coastal views.

Given my passion for art, a stop at The Getty would be a must. The museum’s art collection, stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views of the city make it an unforgettable experience. In the evening, we’d head up to Griffith Observatory to catch one of LA’s famous sunsets and gaze at the night sky.

I’d also make sure to show my tattoo shop, where I could share some of my work and talk about the stories behind the pieces. As a vegan, I’d want to introduce my friend to some of my favorite plant-based eateries—Pura Vita for its amazing Italian dishes and Gracias Madre for fantastic Mexican cuisine.

To cap off the week, catching a live music show would be a great idea. LA always has an incredible lineup of artists, and there’s nothing like experiencing the city’s vibrant music scene. It would be a perfect blend of art, culture, and memorable experiences.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to two very important sources of support in my journey: my sister and my clients. My sister has been a constant pillar of strength, always believing in me even when others had their doubts. Her encouragement helped me push through the difficult times and gave me the confidence to pursue a career path that was far from traditional. She never hesitated to support me, no matter how big the risks seemed, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful.

I also want to express my deepest thanks to each and every one of my clients. Their genuine reactions to my work—their smiles, excitement, and sometimes even tears of joy—are the true fuel that keeps me motivated every day. Each tattoo is not just a piece of art but a shared experience and connection, and it’s their trust in my craft that continuously drives me to grow as an artist.

Website: https://leonovatattoo.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leonova.tattoo 

Image Credits
Willy Weilon