Today we’d like to introduce you to Bara (Barawski Tattooing)
Hi Bara, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was born and raised in a small town in northern Italy, where I led what I would consider a typical teenage life: school, friends, and fun. However, I felt something was missing and began searching for what it could be. Hardcore-punk music had a significant influence on me, and through that, I discovered my interest in tattoos. I was drawn to the underground nature of the tattoo scene, its connection to music, and the experience of getting tattooed itself. The more I interacted with tattoo artists, the more passionate and fascinated I became. Eventually, I decided to pursue it seriously, working a 9 to 5 job and practicing design in every other moment I had, until I secured my first apprenticeship in a tattoo studio.
Tattoos and music also fueled my desire to travel and explore Europe, broadening my perspective to the point where I could only envision living abroad. I left Italy and moved to northern England, where I began working as a full-time tattoo artist. I continued to travel extensively. In total, I spent six years in the UK, the final four of which were in London. I view my time in the UK and Europe as preparation for my move to the United States. I’ve always admired the tattoo culture in the US, particularly in California. Furthermore, it aligned with the lifestyle my wife and I desired. We love the ocean, outdoor activities, warm weather, and the sense of tranquility it offers. San Diego seemed like the perfect little gem, so we decided to leave London and relocate here, where I currently work as a resident tattoo artist at The Grand Reaper.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It certainly wasn’t a smooth road. It demanded significant effort, pushing me beyond my comfort zone, learning a new language, and adapting to a different culture, all while being far from family and friends. However, it was entirely worthwhile. I wouldn’t change a single thing. The experiences I’ve gained over these years have provided invaluable life lessons and shaped me into the person I am today.
When it comes to just tattooing, it’s a real rollercoaster, and there’s always something new to pick up. I think artists are always growing and changing, and I can see that in my own designs and technique. I’m happy with my work because I put everything into it, but I also know I can always do better, and I love to keep pushing my creative limits.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a tattoo artist specializing in the neo-traditional style, though I believe artistic styles are inherently fluid, and I’m constantly striving to evolve my work. My pieces are characterized by bold lines, intricate details with realistic elements, and dynamic compositions that bring subjects to life. My illustration style is influenced by traditional tattooing and realism.
I particularly enjoy tattooing animal subjects, with birds and snakes being personal favorites. My color palette is flexible, varying depending on the subject matter. I aim to either capture the subject’s natural appearance as closely as possible or use color and light to convey specific moods and emotions. In recent years, I’ve focused primarily on large-scale projects. I find these projects more impactful and they often foster greater confidence in my clients. Designing a piece that complements the body’s natural contours is incredibly rewarding.
Ultimately, I’m passionate about the tattooing process and want to create a positive experience for my clients. A tattoo is a permanent choice, and the memory of the experience becomes an important part of it.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
If you’d like to support my work, you can follow me on social media, especially Instagram https://www.instagram.com/barawski_tattooing/ and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/people/Barawski-Tattooing/100063521319730/. I also sell prints, bookmarks, and t-shirts on my Big Cartel online shop (https://barawskitattooing.bigcartel.com/).
For those interested in getting tattooed, the best way to connect is by following my social media and emailing me at barawskitattoos@gmail.com with your tattoo idea.
Artists interested in collaborating can also reach me at barawskitattoos@gmail.com. I’m keen to work with other tattoo artists on unique tattoo projects, and also with creatives in other areas like t-shirt design, custom prints, and general design collaborations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://barawskitattoos.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barawski_tattooing/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Barawski-Tattooing/100063521319730/
- Other: https://barawskitattooing.bigcartel.com/
