Meet Serj Vinni | Tattoo artist

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

Hi Serj, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
It all depends on the situation. If you’re motivated to achieve something, it’s worth pushing through all the difficulties and giving it your best. But sometimes, it’s important to pause and ask yourself, “Do I really want to spend my time and energy on something I’m not passionate about?”
Giving up doesn’t always mean losing. Sometimes, it’s a smart move to conserve your strength and find a new path forward.

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.
I strive to approach every project with a unique concept. My work in the tattoo industry is often inspired by movies, music, and pop culture, as these are the areas that deeply influence people and leave an impact on our lives. Every tattoo project related to these themes is not just an image for me, but a way to convey emotions, atmosphere, and meaning that these cultural stuff are represent.

When I create tattoos based on films, I always try to find that particular scene, character, or symbol that captures the atmosphere and the narrative of the film. It could be a portrait of a favorite character, a recognizable quote, or an important moment that reflects the client’s personal experiences and connection to the movie.

Music provides endless inspiration for me. Tattoos dedicated to musicians, bands, and their albums are one of my favorite themes. I often work with images that reflect the personality of the musician or the essence of their music. These works, for me, are not just tattoos but true art projects that are very meaningful to my clients.

I also often create portraits of clients’ loved ones and pets, as these tattoos become not only artistic pieces but deep personal pieces. For many, it’s a way to preserve the memory of those who are dear to their hearts, whether it’s a beloved person or a pet. The tattoo serves as a reminder of love, affection, and the important moments in life that stay with my client forever, making these projects especially significant and emotional.

What sets me apart from other tattoo artists is my attention to details and deep involvement in every project. I’m always looking for perfection, regardless of the complexity of the work. My clients can be sure that I will put all my effort into making their idea something truly unique and long-lasting.

I can say that my journey into the tattoo industry has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. Like many at the beginning, I faced doubts and obstacles. When I first started, tattooing felt almost unattainable — it’s not just a skill, but a huge responsibility. Transitioning from pencil portraits to tattoos was a step into the unknown, and I spent a lot of time learning. As soon as I started practicing, I was completely captivated by the desire to tattoo — it’s the best feeling when you find something you truly love. My participation in international conventions, winning awards, and striving for impeccable quality helped me get my visa and move to the US.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along this path is the importance of continuous self-development and being open to new ideas. It’s essential to adapt, find your place, and focus not just on the result, but also on enjoying the process. Success doesn’t come overnight — it requires patience and the willingness to learn from mistakes. At the same time, I’m not a fan of working to the point of burnout. For me, balancing work and personal life is important. I’m not driven by the desire to make all the money in the world, and I value time spent with family, friends, and engaging in outdoor activities. Throughout my 10-year career, I’ve always made sure to dedicate time to things that bring me joy, such as skiing, mountain biking, and other active hobbies that help me recharge and stay balanced.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, how I wish my friends would come visit and we could take a trip across America! We’d start by attending a metal music festival or going to a concert of our favorite band. No matter the season, we’d definitely visit Lake Tahoe — skiing in winter and camping by the lake in summer. After returning to Los Angeles, we’d grab a burger at one of the iconic spots, like “In-N-Out.” We’d talk about how tasty and affordable it is, yet so distinctly “American.” In the evening, we’d cruise through the streets of Hollywood and end the day at the atmospheric Rainbow Bar on Sunset Boulevard. Personally, I prefer active recreation and love mountain trips, no matter the season. Travel is such an important part of life and something that deserves special attention.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I don’t have specific idols that I strive to emulate, but there are several tattoo artists who inspire me. One of these artists is Alexey Mashkow. I admire his creative dedication and the scale of the projects he undertakes, from tattoos and paintings to video games. He’s interesting not only as an artist but also as a person — it’s always a pleasure to talk to him. I also appreciate the work of Neon Judas: his style is contrasting, intriguing, and bold, with a clear conceptual approach to his pieces. What especially draws me to his work is his recognizable style and the way he plays with contrast, framing his tattoos with jagged shapes.

And of course, I want to thank my wife, Natalia, who has been an incredible help as a manager in my career and always supports me during tough times.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serjvinni/profilecard/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==