The owner of the ‘Atelier Sans Nom’ private studio (in Armentières near Lille) shows us how much royalty his art – devoted to the beauty of animals – can unleash.
Tito, does that nickname “Inkid” play on the fact that you are still very young and therefore still consider yourself a tattoo art “kid”?
Well, I am constantly seeking growth in all aspects of my life and art. Pushing my limits and expanding my knowledge are constant drives for me. Naturally curious, I love to learn and am always driven by a burning passion.
Meeting the greats in this industry, who inspired me as a child, is an invaluable source of inspiration.
Starting young allowed me to gradually grow in this industry, though no journey is without obstacles. Achieving childhood dreams in a profession that wasn’t expected to become so significant is an incredible fortune.
Major conventions offer the opportunity to meet our idols, and the respect and humility they show me fuel my passion for this art. I am deeply grateful to experience this.
Simple and difficult question at the same time: how did you choose to be a tattoo artist?
Honestly, I didn’t specifically choose it; I was rather carried along. My parents, tattoo enthusiasts since the 80s and 90s, got tattooed by Marcel in Paris, immersing me in this world at a very young age. During their sessions, I would tell Marcel that one day, I too would have tattoos and maybe do what he did. The walls filled with flash art and Marcel, cigarette in mouth, tattooing my father left a deep impression on me.
I felt a sense of freedom and emancipation through this then-unknown art. Growing up in the Paris suburbs allowed me to meet various artists, enriching my journey. At 15, accompanied by my mother, I got my first tattoo in a real studio, and everything followed from there. I absorbed advice from artists and attended conventions like the ‘Tattoo Art Fest’ in Versailles. I analyzed the movements of the best, consulted portfolios, and collected stickers.
What did you do afterwards?
At 16, with my drawing portfolio in hand, I went around Paris studios seeking an apprenticeship. Despite having a solid portfolio, I faced many rejections due to my young age. After moving to northern France, I landed a position in a studio. Simultaneously, I discovered conventions and guest spots as a young tattoo artist. At 22, I opened my first studio, and today, I am very happy to own my studio in Armentières (IG: @lateliersansnom.tattoo), with my partner who works in piercing.
It’s been almost 10 years since I established here, and I am ready for new adventures!
For your use of rich color, the choice of subjects, and the breadth of your tattoos, your style seems very “royal” to me. What do you think?
Honestly, I would never have had this range and choice of colors without the support of my sponsor, Barbers DTS, for nearly seven years. Their support has allowed me to expand my art and techniques, and I am deeply grateful to them. My clients have also played a key role in my evolution.
Their influences, along with my personal life, have shaped my artistic direction and choices. Today, I let myself be guided by what I love and my inner child. When clients travel from afar, trust me, and give me creative freedom, I am profoundly grateful. This satisfaction goes far beyond followers or success; it resides in those little moments of real life.
So, yes, you could say my style has a “royal” aspect, but it is primarily the result of many collaborations and constant support.
Is pride the relevant trait you try to immortalize when you tattoo an animal subject?
My fascination comes from classics like Ace Ventura and Dr. Dolittle, as well as animal documentaries. I’ve always been passionate about the animal world and its diversity. Each animal tattoo I create is a way to immortalize the beauty of nature and raise awareness about what could disappear tomorrow. I let my passions guide me, freeing my mind from technical constraints to make way for fulfillment in the art I love.
If my creations evoke a sense of pride in you, it reflects my own satisfaction in being true to my choices and values. My commitment is to continue evolving as an artist, exploring new horizons while bringing as many animals as possible into this adventure. Each needle stroke affirms our connection with the world and invites us to preserve its beauty for future generations.
Who was (if any) the greatest mentor in your life?
As a self-taught tattoo artist, I never had a defined mentor. After 15 years of experience, I still don’t feel ready to take on apprentices or give seminars. Sometimes, I still doubt my legitimacy in this field.
Being self-taught means navigating a path filled with mistakes before finding the right way. However, meetings and exchanges are invaluable. Events like conventions organized by figures like Miki Vialetto or Tintin offer the opportunity to meet the world’s best tattoo artists. These occasions are crucial not only for growth but also for preserving the magic of our art.
Would you like to describe your place of work? ‘L’Atelier San Nom’ in Armentieres near Lille. The name of your studio suggests an aura of mystery. It is a private studio, right?
At 17, I left the Paris region to move to Lille, where my professional life took off. Inspired by the growing need for comfort and privacy, I created ‘L’Atelier Sans Nom’ (IG: @lateliersansnom.tattoo), a private studio meeting this demand, especially after the advent of Covid. For me, providing my clients with a serene refuge, free from distractions, is essential. The name “Sans Nom” embodies simplicity and authenticity, inviting evolution in anonymity while moving forward with determination. The warm reception of this initiative speaks to its success.
What will be your major events (tattoo conventions, guest spots etc) for the summer 2024 and beyond?
This year, I had the chance to participate in several significant events. I first attended the ‘Gods of Ink’, the Frankfurt convention (IG: @godsofinktattooconvention) for the second time, then I had the honor of being a jury member in Viry-Chatillon. Next, I had the opportunity to join the jury again at the Davezieux convention in Ardèche, organized by my friend Chriz Yvac, where I also created the poster.
Tell me about your role as a jury member then…
Being a jury member was an enriching experience, combining the admiration of a tattoo enthusiast with the perspective of a tattoo artist. I also want to express my gratitude to Jean Marc, who organized the Lille event and gave me my first opportunity as a jury member.
To close this year on a high note, I am about to participate in my first convention in the United States in Miami.
Thanks to Emilio’s invitation for the Miami opportunity. At the same time, I also enjoy experiencing conventions as a passionate visitor, like those in Milan, Florence, Barcelona, and London.
And your last famous words are… ?
Your work will occupy a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to believe in what you do, and the only way to do that is to love what you do. Chase your dreams. Forever kids!
