My journey to becoming a fine line realism tattoo artist happened by chance.
By: Aiko Ortiz
After spending a decade as a barber, I began exploring other ways to channel my creativity, including graphic design and cosmetic tattooing. During that exploration, it struck me: how incredible would it be to combine my drawing skills with this new medium? I can pinpoint that moment as the start of a new path, one that would lead me to pursue single-needle and micro-realism techniques that capture the finest details of life.
Growing up in Toronto, I’ve always been inspired by the city’s cultural mosaic. Each neighborhood, every street corner has its own rhythm; its own story to tell. I carry that spirit into my craft, always striving to create work that reflects not just my own heritage but the diversity and vibrance of the world around me. Fine line and micro-realism is more than a trend to me; it’s a way to tap into the emotional depth of each piece, layering it with meaning and the technical skill I’ve worked so hard to hone.
I’ve also recently gotten into hand-poke tattooing, which is a method that feels raw and intimate in a way that machine work can’t always capture. In addition, while the art form is deeply personal, the business side of tattooing is equally as important, like any other vocation.
I’ve learned to embrace social media not only to showcase my work but to connect with a wider community. Through these channels, I’ve been able to push my art beyond Toronto, creating bonds with people I may have never met otherwise. The tattoo world is constantly evolving, which means I have to be both an artist and a strategist. That’s part of the hustle, and I love it.
But my journey didn’t start in the hustle; it started in a moment of fear and triumph. My first big tattoo gig was born from an interview I did in London with a rapper named J Riley. I had to tattoo him on camera – a situation that forced me to confront a fear of public speaking. The experience wasn’t just about overcoming the anxiety of being seen; it was about connecting through our shared stories, which has left a lasting impact on my life even today.
Tattooing is more than just skin deep. It’s given me the courage to take risks and trust my instincts, to connect with people I’ve never dreamed of knowing on a level that goes far beyond words, and to create a shared experience that’s unique to each client. I’ve traveled to new places, heard incredible stories, and grown as an individual with each line I’ve etched. Tattooing is a journey that connects me to the literal pulse of the human experience. And tattooing is not always easy.
The challenge of staying authentic in an industry that’s growing so fast can be daunting, especially as a young woman navigating traditionally male-dominated spaces. But I’ve come to realize that those very challenges are what push me to be better, to trust my voice, and to create art that is undeniably mine. I embrace the nuance of every piece I create, knowing that, in a sense, each tattoo is a representation of who I am as much as it is a gift to the wearer.
Toronto, this beautiful city, never stops moving. And lately, neither do I. When I feel the pull of routine weighing me down, I remind myself to step outside the studio, to experience art in all its forms. I get lost in the music of a new city, wander through galleries, and surround myself with creators who inspire me to keep pushing the boundaries of what I can do.
The most personal tattoo on my body is my left sleeve. It’s a tribute to the goddesses that represent the different parts of my identity, such as strength, resilience and creativity. When life gets heavy, I look at it and remind myself of my worth and of the innate power within me. Every artist who worked on that sleeve added their unique touch, and it’s a reminder of the diversity and talent within the community I’m so proud to be a part of.
We’re in an era where tattoo culture is evolving faster than ever, with new artists of a younger generation coming into the game with tools, new tech and other platforms at their fingertips. Technology, social media, and the accessibility of equipment are absolutely reshaping this industry, and I’m here for it. At the end of the day, watching the culture shift and grow, knowing I’m part of what’s propelling the wave, makes me excited for the future.
