Gritty and passionate, Brazilian artist Cris works at Tattoo Art House in Belo Horizonte. He pays tribute to his beloved father and his colleague Fernando Tampa, and stuns with breathtaking Realistic tattoos.
Cristhofer, judging by the awards you’ve won, the many countries you’ve visited, and the numerous seminars you’ve led, you come across as a highly driven tattoo artist with a strong hunger for perfection. Has it always been this way? Did that fire for success start burning in you at a young age?
Yeah! Since childhood, I’ve always been very disciplined in everything I set out to do. And with tattooing it couldn’t be different. Discipline, focus and determination – I believe these three pillars are not only the key to success, but also the key to conquering anything we really want. When we align heart and mind with action, the impossible becomes just a matter of time.
Do you think you had mentors in your life who managed to bring you closer to the Realistic style with their skill? Or have you always done everything your own way?
I believe that no one gets anywhere alone. My first mentor was my father – the person who introduced me to art, to tattooing, and opened all the doors for me. He is, without a doubt, the most important figure in my life. He was the one who brought me into this universe and made me breathe tattoos 24 hours a day.
Throughout my journey, I had the privilege of crossing paths with other great mentors – and, especially, Fernando Tampa (IG: @tampatattoo). Tampa made me see tattooing in a completely different way. He showed me that, technically, we can do much more. That with dedication, focus and study, it’s possible to reach levels that once seemed distant.
Putting talent aside, whether it’s in color or black and grey, how do you elevate a Realistic tattoo into something that truly bears the signature of Cristhofer Nieiro? At what point do you feel fully satisfied with the result?”
I believe that richness is in the details. And the more details, the more realism. That’s what moves me. I’ve always had a very critical eye about my work – and I’m the first to push myself for constant evolution.
That’s why I’m always studying, observing, looking for references and improving myself. Because evolving is essential.
And it’s this pursuit that allows me to deliver, every day, the best possible result for each client who trusts me.
Tell me about your workplace and describe the ‘Tattoo Art House’ in Belo Horizonte? Not a simple tattoo studio but a real “house” as specified in its name…
Yes this is our home (IG: @tattooarthouse.bh). The idea was always more than just a studio. It was to create an art gallery. My father had other studios before, and when we decided to open this one together, we wanted something that went beyond tattooing. We wanted a space (IG: @tattooarthouse.bh) where art was present in everything. After all, we spend more hours there than anywhere else. So nothing more fair than making that space a reflection of what we love the most: art in all its forms. More than tattooing, we breathe art every day.
Let’s talk for a moment about the tattoos you show off. Who gave you that tattoo (full of tentacles) that continues on your neck and part of your face?
Most of my tattoos were done by Fernando Tampa (IG: @tampatattoo). Including this one on my face (which was a very important milestone in my career – a liberation and acceptance of myself). During this process, I had the opportunity to meet many amazing tattoo artists… but today I look at this work and feel proud for having chosen him.
It was more than a tattoo on face – it was a remarkable experience with someone I deeply admire.
Will you be touring Europe or other countries at tattoo conventions between fall and winter 2025?
2025 has been an indescribable year for me – and I’m not going to stop here. Later this year there are events in the United States. At the very beginning of 2026, I already have a schedule set for some events in Europe. For us, who come from Brazil, being present on these stages is a source of great pride.
And your last famous words are… ?
The best is yet to come! Heavy collabs are coming with amazing friends – so get ready, because there’s going to be a lot of breathtaking tattoos! I already leave a warning to my partners Fernando Tampa (IG: @ tampatattoo) and Jean Mognon (IG: @jean_mognon): you can start stocking up on energy drinks, because we’re going to spend a few sleepless days. Follow everything, because you won’t regret it!
