The Spanish artist working at 109 Tattoo in Barcelona emphasizes that her Black & Grey pieces must always contain both the energy from the heart and the kind of dissonance that leaves viewers amazed.
Mariona, can you explain why, at a certain point in your life, you realized that everything would make sense if you were a tattoo artist?
I had always been interested in the world of tattooing, but I observed it with respect from a distance. I decided to start tattooing because, given my past experiences, I thought it was the only way I could make a living from art. I quit my job at the bar and began tattooing, and to my surprise, I discovered it was the technique I enjoyed the most. In the end, I realized that everything made sense once I became a tattoo artist. Without a doubt, the best decision I’ve ever made.
You describe your work, mostly in Black and Grey, with a simple phrase: “tattoos with heart.” Do you think contemporary tattoo art needs a bit more “heart”?
In my opinion, you can tell when someone not only applies technique but also puts their heart into what they’re doing. Putting heart into it – That’s what makes the difference between a tattoo that impresses you for a second and one you’ll still remember the next day.
Fortunately, I believe there are many incredible tattoo artists today who not only have great technical skill but also put true heart into their work.
Why do we see so many expressionless female nudes in your portfolio? And what about that medieval, heart-shaped hammer? Are these all metaphors on skin?
I’m very interested in representing the duality between the softness of the female body and the harshness of flails and other heavier, more “aggressive” elements. I try to portray different facets of femininity within a single design and create a dissonance that leaves a lasting impression.
If you could meet a great visionary artist right now (in any field: tattoo art, music, cinema etc.) and could ask him or her just one question, what would you ask to consequently improve your own artistic vision?
I would ask what formula they’ve followed to remain consistent over time, managing to create high quality, distinctive work while still adapting to each client’s preferences.
I believe tattooing has both an author’s side and a craftsman’s side, and finding the balance between the two is not always easy.
Can you tell me a little about your two studios: ‘109 Tattoo’ in Barcelona and ‘Wugu Tattoo Studio’ in Tarragona? Would you add any more tattoo studios to the list, or are two more than enough?
‘Wugu Tattoo’ (IG: @wugu_tattoo) was the first studio that truly believed in me. Thanks to Albert Leiva (IG: @aleivatattoo), I was able to take my first steps as an apprentice and later continue my training at ‘Ondo Tattoo’ (IG: @ondotattoo).
Now you are at ‘109’…
Yeah, I’m currently working at ‘109 Tattoo Barcelona’ (IG: @109barcelona), where I keep learning and growing alongside both artists I started with and new colleagues who bring fresh perspectives. I’m lucky to share space with someone who taught me so much when I was an apprentice and still teaches me every day: El Uf (IG: @el_uf). At ‘109’ there are many of us, and I learn something different from each one, that’s one of the things I love most about tattooing.
How do you imagine your 2026? Do you already have specific guest spots or tattoo conventions in mind?
I imagine 2026 as one of the most decisive years of my career. I have big plans ahead: new countries, more conventions, and new collaborations. I want to connect with artists I admire around the world and keep sharing knowledge so we can all continue growing together.
And your last famous words are… ?
Good is the enemy of Great.
