Editor's Note:
Here's our latest Tattoo Artist Q&A, with Vic Tamian, owner of Victory Art and Tattoo in Little Falls, NJ, and Victory Tattoo NYC in Manhattan. As Vic puts it, the NYC shop had "humbled beginnings" in the old Hells Angels HQ on East 3rd Street, of all places…and even asked the Angels for their blessing first. They said "hells yeah”. Earlier this year the shop moved to a new spot on E. 22nd, right around the corner from where I spent my college days at SVA.
Thanks to Vic for taking the time.
-Mike
What’s your name, and how long have you been tattooing?
My name is Vic Tamian, and I’m currently tattooing out of Victory Art and Tattoo in Little Falls NJ, and Victory Tattoo NYC in Manhattan. I’ve been tattooing for 15 years. It’s become a huge part of my life, and I still feel like I’m constantly learning and improving.
What got you into tattooing?
I’ve always been interested in art, and I’m a self taught artist. Tattooing felt like the perfect combination of creating something meaningful while also connecting with people. I liked the idea that the artwork wasn’t just something that hung on a wall—it became part of someone’s story. The more I learned about the craft, the more I realized it was something I wanted to dedicate myself to.
Did you start off as an apprentice? If so, what was that like?
Yes. Like most apprenticeships, it was a lot of cleaning, observing, drawing, and earning trust before ever touching a machine. It definitely taught me patience and humility. Looking back, I’m grateful for it because it forced me to build a solid foundation instead of rushing into tattooing.
When you were starting out, were you inspired by other artists?
Absolutely. I think every artist is inspired by other artists when they’re starting out. Seeing what was possible pushed me to improve my own work. Over time I’ve tried to take inspiration from a lot of different people without copying anyone, and eventually developing a style that feels authentic to me.
Did you work in other mediums first or go straight to tattoos?
I spent a lot of time drawing, painting, and sculpting before tattooing. Learning composition, value, line work, and design helped a lot once I transitioned into skin. Even though tattooing is its own medium, those fundamentals definitely carry over.
Do you work in other mediums now?
I still enjoy doing all of those things outside of tattooing whenever I have the chance. It’s nice to create without the pressure of performance and expectation, and it also helps me experiment with ideas that eventually influence my tattoos.
Do you have a specific niche or style that you specialize in?
I enjoy work that has high contrast, texture, and detail. I like to implement strong composition, clean execution, and solid longevity with every piece. I like creating tattoos that fit the body well and will still look good years down the line. While I have styles I naturally gravitate toward, I’m always interested in growing and challenging myself creatively and accepting new pieces that I ordinarily wouldn’t do otherwise.
How do you handle the pressure of knowing that when tattooing, it’s permanent…there’s no “undo” button?
I think it’s healthy to respect that pressure instead of trying to ignore it. Every tattoo is permanent, so preparation is everything. I spend a lot of time making sure everything is right before I even start tattooing. Once I begin, I lock in and stay focused then it’s just me and the client and nothing else matters.
Some tattoo styles seem to come and go. Is there one style that’s gone away that you miss?
I don’t necessarily miss one specific style as much as I miss when people weren’t chasing trends as much. Though I do like some trends that have come out lately like cyber sigilism…trends are always going to exist, but I appreciate tattoos that feel personal and timeless more than whatever happens to be popular at the moment.
Do you prefer clients who come with a finished idea, or ones who give you a vague concept and let you run with it? Do most clients give you freedom to be creative?
I like a balance. It’s great when someone has a meaningful idea or knows what they’re looking for, but I also appreciate when they trust me enough to interpret it. I also love it when someone grabs a piece I post off my story. Usually the best tattoos come from collaboration. Most of my clients are open to my suggestions, and that trust usually leads to a better final piece.
You’ve probably heard a lot of back-stories “behind the tattoo.” Is there one story about a tattoo that you’ve done that’s stuck with you?
One thing that’s always stayed with me is how personal tattoos can be. I’ve tattooed memorial pieces, tattoos celebrating major life milestones, and designs that helped people reclaim parts of themselves after difficult experiences. Those moments remind me that tattooing is about much more than putting ink in skin—it’s about preserving memories. There isn’t just one story that stands out as much as the fact that so many people trust me with capturing those moments.
Aside from that story, do you have a favorite tattoo that you’ve done?
It’s hard to pick just one. Usually my favorite is whatever challenged me the most or taught me something new. I think every tattoo pushes me a little further, so my favorite is always changing. I’m partial to black and gray though, so those have a special place in my heart.
Aside from the actual drawing, what’s a skill a tattoo artist needs that people don’t realize? What challenges do tattoo artists face?
Communication is probably one of the biggest skills people don’t think about. You’re helping someone make a permanent decision, so listening well, setting expectations, and making people feel comfortable are just as important as technical ability. Time management, problem-solving, and being adaptable are also huge. Every person’s skin is different, every project is different, and no two days are exactly the same.
