We have a fun and special feature - our favorite Tattoo artist in Paris! Anastasia aka Anna Bravo has tattooed both Anastasia and me (not at the same time). My lovely wife found Anna on Instagram as she was looking for an artist that could execute her idea for a new tattoo last year. Then, by pure chace, Anna had a special project with ananas/pineapples that spoke to me and it ended up on my left forearm. Some of our friends love her style and might end up booking with Anna for their own tattoos…so, who knows? You, reader, might end up booking her :D

Now, on to our interview.

Where are you from and how did you come to Paris?

I’m from Russia. To be more precise, from south of Russia. Before I moved to Paris, I was living in Saint Petersburg. The reason why I came to Paris is very simple. I fell in love with a French guy. Such a cliché hahaha

How did you get into tattoo art?

In truth, it was very spontaneous. 7 years ago I got diagnosed with Leukemia. I was scared for my life and was sure that it was over for me. When I came to Paris for the first time in my life, it was just to see better doctors. After all the examinations I had, I got an answer that I’m totally healthy. My leukemia was a mistake. I had just some problems with lymphatic system. That’s not scary at all. Can you imagine how happy I was? and at the same time I was very upset because it was a moment when I needed to decide: what I will do next in my life? I was not ready. One night, I was celebrating with my friends my « revival » and just for fun I put one dot with a tattoo needle near my ass ( we were drunk as hell) to symbolize that the nightmare is finished. One of my friends made a joke : « oh, Nastya, you have an amazing dot work » . It was the beginning. I bought a machine and started practice.

How many tattoos do you have?

I have around 18 tattoos - big and small.

What is the most memorable tattoo you’ve ever done?

Hard to say. I remember almost all the tattoos that I have done ( if I see photo, I will recognize it) but the tattoo I remember the most of all is one I made for my friend. It’s a portrait of Nicolas Tesla. ( I don’t do portraits, so it was complicated for me)

What inspires you in creating your designs?

I get inspiration from nature. Most of the time I’m working with botanical projects because I love it. Flowers are the most beautiful creatures of our Mother Earth.

How does one book an appointment with you and what are the few things they need to know before they do?

For bookings with me, it’s very simple. Every month, I announce available dates for the following month on my Instagram Account @anna_bravo_ as long as I am taking appointments. You just need to send me just one email with an explanation of your idea, the size, the placement and some photo examples. Also, you need to tell me the date that you want. Only the first 20 people who send me an email will be schedule. If have tried more than twice, you will be in priority for the next time. I came up with this system because I can plan traveling to other cities or countries easier. Also, it’s very difficult to answer to all people at the same time. Now, when you’re going to a tattoo session - just bring a good mood with you and do not drink alcohol the day before. That’s all you need to do.

Any tattoo regrets?

Yes! I had one. It was my first one. It was blue eye on my neck. “Had” because I covered it up haha.