About me
Hey there! I'm Tato, a tattoo artist and illustrator based in Lisbon. Originally from Argentina, I've made Portugal my creative home since 2024.
I work as a resident artist at Names Tattoo Studio and ocasionally travel the world for guest spots.
From drawing alone to tattoing together
I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember, with no other goal behind it than enjoying the process. For years, that was something I did just for myself — a quiet, personal space I’d go to feel grounded. Back then, living through my art was just a far away dream, and life kept pulling me in other directions. It wasn’t until I discovered tattooing almost a decade ago that I saw a path where my love for drawing, traveling, and connecting with new people could all come together.
I found tattooing around eight years ago, and it changed everything. I was first drawn to handpoke — a slower, more intentional way of working. Back then in Argentina, it wasn’t common, so although I studied the safety procedure and the technique basics at a tattoo school, I had to patiently teach myself through experience. I practiced on fake skin, and slowly built the knowledge and confidence to work safely. I’ll be forever grateful to the friends and family who trusted me in those early days.
At first, I worked mostly in black and grey. Color came almost 5 years later — when I felt ready to bring more of myself into the process. That’s when I started including the pencil and crayon textures that had always been part of my illustrations. It wasn’t just a style choice — it felt like things were finally aligning.


Artistic approach
For me, tattooing is more than just technique or craft. It’s a form of expression that feels honest and alive — especially because I get to share it with others. It’s where I feel most myself, both as an artist and as a person.
What moves me the most is the trust behind it. The idea that someone can connect with a drawing of mine so deeply that they choose to carry it on their skin for life — that’s something I never take lightly.
Sustainability practices
Since I started tattooing, I’ve been focused on reducing plastic waste during my sessions. While single-use items are still necessary for safety, we now have biodegradable and compostable alternatives that are much less harmful. I’m committed to making every session have the least environmental impact possible, choosing sustainable options without compromising quality or safety.