We catch up with one of our newer artists, Gabriela Fraga to find out a bit more about the beautiful botanical tattoos she creates.`
Your tattoos have such beautiful flow, Can you share how you adapt delicate natural elements, like petals and leaves, to fit a client’s body shape and movement?
I always try to find the best way to fit the design on the client, in a way that it follows the body’s silhouette and doesn’t look like a sticker on the skin.
Florals, as an element of nature, always need a more organic and fluid format.
What’s the most challenging tattoo you’ve ever done?
It’s hard to tell what was the most challenging one. Every tattoo is kind of a challenge, because every person is different. Sometimes a tattoo that seems to be easy, end up being a very hard one, because of the placement, skin type, or even pain tolerance. The same ways as sometimes a tattoo that I think it might be very difficult, can be done very easily.
How do you decide which flowers or plants to include in your designs? Do you research their anatomy or symbolism?
The flowers or plants depends on the client’s idea for the design, it can be specific ones or just randomly, according to the person’s preference. I do research the anatomy and symbolism, this way I can find what is better for the project.
Are there any specific plant species or floral motifs that clients request most frequently?
The most requested flower is definitely a rose. It’s a beautiful plant and very easy to find anywhere, so it’s present on a lot of special moments, what it probably gives it a special meaning.
What are some of the unique challenges of working in black and grey compared to colour tattoos, especially with botanical designs?
I believe that a possible challenge of tattooing florals in black and gray is to ensure that each flower has details that make it unique, while keeping the delicacy. When the project has colours, it ends up being easier because each flower has a different colour.
We see other elements, like insects and birds in your designs, would you like to incorporate other elements into your tattoos in the future?
Yes, of course. I’m always open to new ideas for designs. As long as it matches my style line, I would love to incorporate any different element.
How do you ensure that delicate floral details, like fine lines and shading, hold up over time on the skin? Do you have any advice on healing tips for your clients?
I’ve been tattooing for almost 6 years, and it’s important to me, try to monitor on the healing process and after that, over time.
Every time an old client comes, I check the previous tattoos that did. This way I can see what works over time or not.
The client’s after care is extremely important for the healing and for the beauty of the tattoo. I always advise moisturising at least 3-4 times a day (especially in cold weather, that makes the skin drier), but it is good to keep in mind that your tattoo is a part of your body now. So if you don’t keep hydrate (drink water) and have a good diet, it will also affect the results of your tattoo.
What advice would you give to someone interested in getting their first botanical tattoo?
I would say: “Just do it!” hahaha. My advice is always to look for a good professional, someone that you identify with the style, designs and maybe even personality.
It’s good to get a nice tattoo, but also have a good experience on the process.
Gabi In your opinion, what makes black and grey botanical tattoos timeless compared to other styles?
In my opinion, flowers will always be timeless. A person who loves flowers, will never stop loving it, so it wouldn’t be something you would get tired of it over time. It will always be a beautiful and delicate design to have.
What do you hope clients take away from your floral tattoos—both visually and emotionally?
I hope my clients feel genuinely happy with the choice they made, and that this choice symbolize pride, courage and inspiration. May the tattoo help their self-esteem, style and the way of expressing themselves to the world.
I hope they leave the studio a 100% satisfied with my work, and feel like they would trust me again for another one.
Thank you Gabi! We look forward to seeing more of your beautiful floral tattoos this year at One By One.
You can see more from Gabriela’s portfolio here and on her instagram @Gfraga.tattoo
