Tiago Rodrigues da Costa “TiagoKoss” São Paulo / SP / Brazil @tiagokosstattoo

Since childhood, Tiago Koss has been deeply connected to the world of art. His journey into tattooing began at 17 when he first experimented with a tattoo machine, discovering a passion that led him to become a professional artist in 2018.

Transitioning from paper to skin was a major challenge, but through dedication and practice, Tiago refined his technique. Inspired by renowned Brazilian artists such as Tampa, Ramon, and Fernando Souza, he has continuously evolved, specializing in black and grey realism—a style that allows him to play with contrast and shading to create striking designs.

His career has taken him across different countries, participating in events and collaborating with artists worldwide. In 2024, he won first place in the black and grey category at Tattoo Week, the largest tattoo convention in Latin America. Today, he continues to expand his horizons with international projects and new learning experiences.

1. What inspired you to take the first step into the world of tattooing? How did your involvement in this field come about?

Since I was a child I have always been involved with art and dreamed of working on something related to it. At 13 I started an artistic drawing course that lasted about four years. Unfortunately, the school closed, but I continued studying and improving my self-taught training skills. When I was 17, my cousin, who took a drawing course with me, bought a tattoo kit and started tattooing. Although I never thought about getting a tattoo, after watching him, I realized I could give it a try. One day I asked to use the material and make a tattoo. It was harder than I imagined, but I knew I could improve and evolve with practice and dedication. And then, after a few years of study, I started my career as a professional tattoo artist in 2018.

2. Reflect on your early experiences as an artist. What challenges did you face at the beginning, and how did you overcome the difficulties in the learning process?

Initially, facing the transition from paper to skin was a significant challenge for me. Although I already had experience creating artwork on paper, adapting to the tattoo environment – working with skin and a needle instead of paper and pencil – required considerable effort. However, over time and with a lot of practice, I was able to master these new skills. Each step of this process was crucial in refining my technique and achieving the desired quality in my tattoos.

3.Are there any role models or styles that have influenced your career?What specific influences do you feel have left their mark on your work?

Since the beginning of my journey, I have sought to learn from the best artists in Brazil. I’ve had the privilege of studying with renowned tattoo artists like Tampa, Ramon, Nieiro, Rizo, and Fernando Souza, among others. Each workshop was crucial for my growth, providing me with new techniques and perspectives that enriched my work. The wisdom and experience shared by these masters were essential for my development as a tattoo artist. Currently, I am exploring color realism, driven by curiosity and the desire to continually learn. I find inspiration in a variety of sources, from pop culture to Renaissance art, which enriches and diversifies my creations. This relentless search for new influences contributes to the constant evolution of my work.

4. Your career has taken you to various destinations. How have your travels and experiences outside your usual environment enriched your work and artistic approach?

I find great inspiration for my designs in both my hobbies and everyday life. My visits to museums and exhibitions provide valuable ideas and references, allowing me to incorporate a rich combination of cultural and artistic elements into my creations. Additionally, whenever possible, I seek to meet other artists, both in Brazil and abroad, as I believe that networking expands and enriches my perspective as an artist.

5. What captivated you about this particular style, and why did you decide to specialise in it?

I believe that the black and grey style is extremely versatile, allowing adaptations that enhance its impact regardless of skin type. I enjoy incorporating skin spaces into the design to intensify the contrast and achieve a striking tone gradient application.

6. Do you have plans to work as a guest artist in other studios this year? What does this experience mean to you, and what do you hope to achieve at your upcoming guesting events?

Yes, I plan to do new guest spots in Europe. This is essential for me, as it allows me to take my work to an international level and, furthermore, understand the new tattoo trends outside of my country. In my upcoming guest spots, I hope to attract new clients and reconnect with previous ones, with the goal of creating amazing and fully personalized projects.

7. What are your projects and aspirations looking towards the future?Is there something specific you hope to achieve in the long term?

For the future, my plans include not only continuously expanding my knowledge and improving my techniques but also participating in more international conventions. This experience will allow me to explore new influences, exchange ideas with other professionals, and strengthen my presence in the global tattoo scene

8. Have you had the opportunity to participate in tattoo conventions? What lessons and experiences have you gained from these events, and what recognitions have you received throughout your career?

I have a consistent history of participation and achievements in various tattoo conventions. In January 2024, I had the honor of winning first place in the black and grey category at Tattoo Week, the largest tattoo convention in Latin America. In addition to this remarkable achievement, I received other equally significant awards. Beyond the awards, I deeply value the experience gained through interactions and exchanges with other artists. These encounters not only expand my knowledge but also enrich my professional practice.

9. If someone is interested, what channels or social media platforms do you use to stay in contact with your followers?

Currently, I use Instagram and TikTok; you can find me as @tiagokosstattoo.

10. To conclude, is there any message you would like to share?

Being a tattoo artist is much more than just applying ink to skin – it's about transforming ideas and feelings into permanent art. Every client brings a story, and it's our job to bring those narratives to life with technique, creativity, and respect. The pursuit of growth should never stop, whether it's refining your lines, exploring new styles, or studying anatomy and composition. More than just making tattoos, our role is to create experiences and connections. So, keep moving forward in your learning, trust your process, and never lose the passion for what you do!