6 Questions with Alena Zozulenko: Navigating the Tattoo Artistry Scene in New York

Q1: You’ve mentioned that diligence matters more than talent in the tattoo industry. Can you elaborate on how hard work has shaped your career in the past 1.5 years in the U.S.?

Alena Zozulenko: Absolutely. The U.S. values hard work across all professions, and the tattoo industry is no exception. I’ve found that consistently putting in the effort eventually yields results. In the past 1.5 years, I’ve seen the demand for tattoos grow, and I attribute that to the expanding tattoo industry in America.

Q2: What inspired your move to Dot Create Group, and how has the experience been working there amidst the growing clientele?

Alena Zozulenko: Dot Create Group aligns with my vision, and the decision to join them was natural. The studio is even looking for new spaces to accommodate the rising demand. Working here has been an enriching experience. The clientele is diverse, and I appreciate the studio’s commitment to excellence.

Q3: You’ve embraced social media, utilizing Instagram and recently starting on TikTok. How have these platforms impacted your reach and interaction with clients?

Alena Zozulenko: Social media is a powerful tool for both promotion and client interaction. Clients often find me through the studio’s website or my personal Instagram account. Recently, I ventured into TikTok, creating content in English to address common questions about tattoos. It serves a dual purpose, answering queries and helping me practice my English.

Q4: Incorporating artificial intelligence into your work is fascinating. How has using neural networks influenced your creative process, and what benefits do you see in it?

Alena Zozulenko: Neural networks have become a valuable part of my creative process. While I never copy images from the internet, neural networks help generate graphic foundations for future designs. They offer fresh ideas, particularly when faced with repetitive requests. The AI suggests inspiring concepts, like dragons or snakes, which I then refine, adding my unique touch.

Q5: Your sponsorship with Hustle Butter has provided unique opportunities, including participation in a major tattoo convention. Can you share your experience and observations from that event?

Alena Zozulenko: Participating in the Hustle Butter conventions has been an incredible experience. They bring together tattoo artists associated with the brand and provide a platform for them to work. I had the chance to engage with representatives from various brands and fellow tattoo artists. It’s heartening to see the high caliber of talent, including artists from Russia and the CIS region, gaining recognition in the U.S.

Q6: Reflecting on your journey, why do you choose not to teach tattoo artistry formally?

Alena Zozulenko: While I’m open to sharing knowledge, I prefer not to conduct formal courses. My desire to continually learn and grow in this field is significant. However, I’m always willing to guide someone genuinely interested in the profession. When individuals express interest, I ask for portfolios and may provide specific tasks to assess their skills. Many aspiring artists underestimate the challenges, thinking they’ll create masterpieces from the start, but, as with any creative field, that’s a common misconception.

Closing Thoughts:

In the realm of tattoo artistry, Alena Zozulenko’s journey unfolds as a testament to the transformative power of hard work and dedication. Her willingness to embrace technology, engage with social media, and collaborate with industry leaders highlights the evolving landscape of tattoo artistry in the United States. As she continues to leave her mark, both artistically and as a mentor to aspiring talents, Alena remains committed to the belief that experience, combined with a passion for learning, paves the way for a successful career in tattoo artistry.