Mirko’s ascent in the world of tattoo artistry is nothing short of extraordinary. His exceptional artistic prowess has captivated the hearts of tattoo enthusiasts and earned him notable acclaim in prestigious tattoo publications.
However, Mirko’s influence extends beyond the pages of magazines. He has fortified his standing in the tattoo industry through sponsorships from leading brands in the tattoo product sector. Cartiel Needles, a prominent name recognized for its professional tattoo equipment and cutting-edge needle cartridges, proudly supports Mirko. This brand’s commitment to excellence and its global distribution network highlights the significance of Mirko’s endorsement, marking him as an artist of international repute.
Since 2021, Mirko Del Torto has held the esteemed position of resident artist at Eternal City Tattoo Studio, a highly acclaimed tattoo parlor with multiple locations across Italy. This studio is renowned for featuring some of the best tattoo artists globally, and its rigorous selection process highlights the elite nature of its artists. Mirko’s association with Eternal City Tattoo Studio is a testament to his status as a top-tier artist, consistently meeting and exceeding the high standards set by the studio.
Mirko’s expertise extends across Europe, having worked as a guest artist in some of the continent’s most prestigious studios, including Lowrider Tattoo in London and Thy Gallery. Additionally, Mirko has shared his knowledge through lectures on “Chican Tattoo” at MITA. His talent has been recognized through numerous awards, such as the Best of Friday prize at the 2022 Milano Tattoo Convention and the Best of Day prize at the 2024 Vicenza Tattoo Convention, where he stood out among many international artists.
Securing a position at a major tattoo studio like Eternal City Tattoo Studio and winning awards at prominent conventions like the Milano Tattoo Convention are monumental achievements. The studio’s stringent standards mean only the crème de la crème of tattoo artists is selected, and Mirko’s inclusion signifies his elite status in the industry. These accomplishments not only highlight Mirko’s exceptional skills but also position him at the pinnacle of his field, reinforcing his reputation as an elite tattoo artist. Winning accolades in Milan, one of the most important conventions in Europe, further cements his success, showcasing his talent and dedication to his craft.
Mirko’s journey is a shining example of passion, talent, and relentless pursuit of excellence in the tattoo industry, and his remarkable achievements continue to inspire aspiring artists worldwide.
We recently got in touch with him and did a quick candid interview.
What inspired you to become a tattoo artist and when did you start it as a career?
I have always been a great lover of art. Since I was a child, I have sought ways to express myself and everything I hold inside. I experimented with various art forms, starting with graffiti and even music, but it was through a friend that I discovered the world of tattoos, which enchanted me from the very beginning. My first contact with the world of tattoos was in 2012, and since then, I haven’t spent a single day without doing what I love.
How many tattoos do you have on your body, and what’s your favorite one?
I don’t know exactly how many tattoos I have, but most of my skin is tattooed. I still need to tattoo my right hand, one side of my neck, and my back. I have many tattoos that I am attached to, as they always remind me of a moment or episode in my life. Perhaps my favorite is the one on my neck and the inscription on the back of my head.
Which is your favorite client tattoo, what was the story behind it, and how much time did it take?
The tattoo I am most attached to is one I did for Alessandra, a client I am fond of. She allowed me to express a strong feeling through the tattoo we created, which won the first place at the most important convention in Italy, the “Milano Tattoo Convention.”
What do you do in your free time when not tattooing people?
When I’m not tattooing, I spend my time seeking inspiration through movies, which I am passionate about, or music. I always look for new perspectives and influences that I can incorporate into my tattoos, striving to bring something new and personal to my work.
Why do you think people get a tattoo, even though it’s a painful process?
Because it’s an expression of who they are inside, seeking to externalize thoughts, pains, joys, and ideas, or to imprint a special moment on their skin with a design, without having to use words. Pain is a part of life, and often, feeling the pain of a tattoo makes us forget about things that really hurt. It’s like a process of awareness. Sometimes, it’s just for aesthetics, which is also a very important component nowadays.
Who is your favorite tattoo artist?
I have many tattoo artists who inspire me, and I remain impressed by their work and the paths they have taken. Today, my favorite tattoo artists include Ivano Natale, with whom I had the pleasure of working; Kindamo, a friend I worked with for a few months; Carlos Torres, an absolute legend in the world of tattoos; WEB MC, with whom I have the pleasure of working in Rome; and many others.
What are the different styles of tattoos you make?
I do black and gray tattoos. I specialize in Chicano tattoos done with a realistic technique, and I am now trying to incorporate ornamental elements and movement that add sinuosity and follow the body’s movements.
Where do you see the future of tattoos?
I see the future of tattoos expanding. In the last 10 years, things have changed radically with the advent of technology, which is always beneficial if taken in the right direction.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I will be 30 in a few days. I already have a solid background at both the national and European levels. My dream and goal are to leave my mark in this world and maybe in other artistic fields as well. I want to make my art and my feelings known to the whole world, and I believe that America is a crucial country for growing both as a person and as an artist.
If you had a choice, which celebrity would you like to tattoo, and any specific design?
I would love to tattoo Drake or J. Cole. It would be a dream and an honor for me. I wouldn’t know specifically what to tattoo, but I would like to exchange a few words with them to understand and imprint something personal from their lives on their skin.
Please share your social handles and how to reach out to get a tattoo.
You can find me on all major social media platforms: Instagram, X, Facebook, and TikTok under the same name “mirkodeltorto.” You can contact me directly there or via my email: [email protected].
