This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Sponsored Artist of the Month, Ina Lutaric—a tattooist whose journey into the industry has been anything but ordinary.
Based in Maribor, Slovenia, Ina is the proud owner of Pineapple Tattoo Maribor and known for vibrant colour realism and surrealist-inspired pieces that often blend abstract and graphic elements. From animals to ethereal portraits, her work radiates both technical mastery and artistic imagination.
Ina’s path to becoming a full-time tattoo artist wasn’t straightforward. However, her dedication has paid off in countless ways—most recently with multiple awards at international tattoo conventions, including Best of Show, Best of Colour, and Best of Sunday at Tattoo Convention Graz earlier this year.
With a style that continues to evolve, Ina takes inspiration from some of the biggest names in the tattoo world, while staying true to her own creative vision. She’s quick to remind aspiring artists that tattooing is far from “easy”—it’s a lifestyle that demands passion, resilience, and relentless dedication.
So, read our interview with her to learn more about her work as a tattoo artist, the advice she gives to beginner artists, and her upcoming appearances at conventions later this year!
How did you start tattooing? Did you always want to be a tattoo artist?
Oh, that was a really long road! It honestly took me way too long to get serious about tattooing professionally. I first started practicing on fake skin back in 2014, but nothing really came of it… I think I just wasn’t mentally ready yet. But the desire never went away, so in 2019 I picked it back up and told myself: It’s now or never.
By July 2019, I was working in a local tattoo shop, and in January 2020, I opened my own studio.
I’ve always loved tattooing—I was obsessed with LA Ink and Miami Ink—but for a long time I didn’t think it was realistic for me. I didn’t see it as something I could do full time. But once I started, I quickly realized it’s only a full-time job… and I still can’t believe I get to live my dream every day.
Where did you do your apprenticeship and what was the biggest learning curve for you?
Honestly, the hardest part at first was the fear—working on real people is terrifying.
I’ve always been my own worst critic and aim for perfection. The challenge for me—still to this day—is accepting that you’ll never know everything, and there’s no tattoo in the world that couldn’t be improved just a little bit more.
Do you have any advice for apprentice tattoo artists?
Having had a few apprentices myself, I’d say the biggest misconception beginners have is that tattooing is “easy.” They think you just pick it up, your mentor teaches you a few tricks, and boom—you’re amazing. Some even see it as a “cool” job, like you just hang out all day being an artist.
The first thing I tell anyone who wants to tattoo: This is f**ing hard. If you want to be good, it has to be a lifestyle, not a job. You have to give it every single day for at least two years before you even start finding your own style. You can’t get tired of it, you can’t crumble under pressure or criticism. If you’re aiming for greatness, “good enough” is never an option.
How would you describe your tattoo style?
My style is still evolving, but I’d describe it as surrealism and colour realism, often mixed with abstract or graphic elements.
Which artists inspire your style the most?
My biggest inspirations are Rich Harris, Natasha Animal, Sandra Daukshta, Carolina Caos Avalle, and Stefano Galati.
What’s the story behind the name of your tattoo studio ‘Pineapple Tattoo Maribor’?
The studio is in Maribor! As for the name—there’s no deep story, haha. I always said that if I had my own studio, it would be called “Pineapple.” And… that’s the story. The story is there is no story behind the name!
What’s the most common type of tattoo you get asked to do?
Definitely animals, and something in my style—a woman’s face is almost always included.
How do you balance your own creativity with what the client wants?
I only take on projects that fit my style. I work in colour, and if it’s black and grey, it still needs to have some colour in it—and be something I’m excited to do.
I love when clients come in for consultations so we can brainstorm together. That way, we create something amazing as a team. My clients are the best—they know my style, trust me, and we never have to “compromise” in a way that kills the idea.
What’s your favourite design you’ve tattooed?
I tend to overthink and analyse every tattoo I make—so if I love it today, I might not love it tomorrow. But I’m especially proud of my convention pieces, because those are moments when I can create freely. My top favourites? Young Athena from Landshut, Alice in Wonderland from Brussels, and Magic Fairy World from Poznan.
What’s a dream tattoo project you haven’t done yet but would love to?
I’m lucky that conventions give me the chance to make something I love every time. But I also have a lot of “wannados” I’m itching to do in the studio.
Outside of tattooing, what other art forms or hobbies inspire you?
Honestly, almost everything I do outside of work still connects to tattooing somehow! But I do love my dogs, music, and binge-watching series and movies.
What are your go-to inks for a colour piece?
Definitely Intenze Tattoo Ink—no question.
Are there any other tattoo supplies, e.g. machines, cartridges, and aftercare, you can’t live without?
Miracle Oil from Cheyenne and Second Skin. I like trying new things, but these are my must-haves, (and some merch from Killer Ink….).
What role does social media play in your career as a tattoo artist?
Way too big of a role for my taste. I’m not someone who enjoys being in the spotlight, so it’s hard for me. But in today’s world, you can’t really ignore it.
Have you ever faced creative burnout? If so, how do you overcome it?
Oh, many times. I just try to relax, research other artists’ work, find new ideas, and keep sketching until something clicks.
What was your experience of winning Best of Show, Best of Colour, and Best of Sunday at the Tattoo Convention Graz earlier this year?
Conventions are both the best and the most stressful part of tattooing. Graz this year was a rollercoaster—my first model ghosted me, the second got sick, and I had to find a new model the day before the event. Luckily, an amazing guy stepped in last minute… and we won! Every convention has its ups and downs, but I always learn something and meet incredible artists.
Which tattoo convention has been your favourite to attend this year?
Milan in January and Poznan in May—both were amazing experiences.
Do you have any tips for beginner artists attending conventions?
Start small and go big. Begin with smaller conventions, work your ass off, and push yourself to do three big tattoos over three days. And definitely visit the big ones, like Gods of Ink and World of Ink. Stand there staring at your idols’ work until it’s borderline weird! You can learn so much just by watching.
Have you collaborated with any other artists? If not, are there any artists you’d like to collaborate with?
Not yet on big tattoos, but I’d love to do something at a convention. No specific artist in mind—I’m open.
Do you have any other guest spots or conventions lined up?
Yes! Amsterdam Tattoo Expo, Verona in October, and Brussels, Trieste, and Rijeka in November.
