In a world where skin becomes a canvas and a needle becomes a brush, true masterpieces are born. Maxym Yanko is one of those artists whose skill turns an ordinary tattoo into a work of art. In this article we will look at the key aspects of his skills, from sketching to technique, to reveal the secrets of his professionalism.
How did you come into the world of tattooing? How did your journey as a tattoo artist begin? What were the first steps and challenges?
My journey into the world of tattooing began over a decade ago. What was initially just an interest in the art gradually became my life’s work. The first steps were a real challenge: I had to learn a lot on my own, forging my own path without the experience and support of mentors. But I had a clear vision of my future in this craft, so I worked hard day in and day out, without compromise.
Your main direction is colour realism. Why are you attracted to this style and how did you develop your skills in it?
My particular focus has always been on detail, depth of colour and the ability to embody emotion through visual imagery. Colour realism has been the perfect tool for me to do this. I have worked hard to improve my technique, boldly experimented with materials and approaches, learnt from leading specialists, attended masterclasses and actively participated in international tattoo festivals.
How do you find inspiration for your work? Are there any special sources?
Inspiration can come from anything – nature, art, film, music, or just from talking to a person. I often focus on the client’s energy and their story, because that is what determines what kind of sketch will be born.
Tell us about your creative process, from the idea to the tattoo's realization on the skin. And what stages are key for you?
I always create a sketch on the day of the session – together with the client. It is this approach that allows me to take their wishes into account as best as possible and make the design truly personalised. The key points are: understanding the idea, a trusting relationship between me and the client, careful selection of the composition, and, of course, the work on the skin itself – here every detail must be done as accurately and technically flawless as possible.
Participating in international tattoo conventions and master classes - what impact has this had on your professional development?
It’s a completely different way of looking at work. At such events, you take on a project, focusing not only on your own preferences or the client’s wishes, but also on what will impress the audience and demonstrate your professionalism to the entire audience. The main thing here is live communication with top masters, valuable exchange of experience and a unique opportunity to personally meet the legends of the industry, whom you have previously seen only on the screen. These meetings are truly inspiring and give a powerful impetus for further development. But when I work ‘for myself’, I give myself complete freedom – I experiment, try new techniques, play with textures. It’s funny that sometimes these very works attract the most attention and become commercially successful.
The main thing is not to turn art only into a business, otherwise you can lose your passion. But don’t get hung up on pure inspiration either – because when you can earn money by creating, you have more time to do what you love. It’s all about keeping a balance.
Working as a guest artist in leading studios in Germany, Austria and the Netherlands - how was this experience different from working in Ukraine and the USA? What new things did you discover for yourself?
In each country, tattooing remains an art form and a way of communicating the client’s vision through my artistic interpretation. The only noticeable difference is that in the States, clients are more trusting of the artist, more open to his vision and suggestions. This gives me the opportunity to unleash my full creative potential and bring something truly special to life.
Collaborations with well-known figures (Dennis Schröder, Jason Butler, and others) - how did these collaborations come about? Are there any specific aspects to working with public figures?
For me, famous people are just as much clients as anyone else. I don’t differentiate between clients based on their status or level of fame. I appreciate absolutely everyone who chooses me and I treat the work with the same responsibility and respect – no matter who is sitting in front of me.
I always give myself one hundred per cent because I realise that a tattoo is forever and a person will wear my work for the rest of their life. This is the best recommendation for me as an artist, so I always strive to make things as good as possible – both for the stars and for anyone who has put their trust in me.
Participating in art projects such as New York Fashion Week Afterparty - tell us about this experience. How is tattooing integrated into the world of fashion and art?
It was a really interesting experience that allowed us to look at tattoos not just as a craft, but as an organic part of the art space.
In the fashion industry, tattoos are a strong element of style, an expression of identity and a powerful visual message. I am very happy to have had the opportunity to be involved in such a project.
Your works are widely spread on the Internet. What role do you think social networks play in the development and popularisation of tattoo art?
Social networks are the main channel of communication with potential clients. They are the ones that allow me to demonstrate the level of my work, convey my unique style and find my interested audience.
Thanks to Instagram, I have received a significant number of requests for tattoos both in the United States and abroad.
You talk about tattooing as a profound form of self-expression. How do you help clients realise their ideas and emotions through tattoos?
My goal is not just to create a beautiful image, but to help a person convey his or her personal feelings, experiences or cherished dreams. I always listen carefully, clarify important details, and only then create a sketch, complementing it with my own artistic vision. This is true co-operation.
Looking back over your 10+ years of experience, what do you consider to be your greatest achievement in your career?
For me, the greatest achievement is people’s trust. The fact that clients come back, recommend me, appreciate my work. And also that I was able to fulfil myself as a tattoo artist in different countries of the world.
