@vilas_tattooer

 Santarém, Portugal

 My name is Márcio Vilas, though I’m better known by my artist name, Vilas. I’m 35 years old and have always been curious about the world of tattooing, largely because I already have several tattoos on my body and admire this art form. In 2022, I began teaching myself at home, practicing on artificial skin. Over time, my progress was noticeable, and I began tattooing friends until I joined a studio in Santarém. Currently, I focus mainly on the Fine Line, Botanical, and Anime styles, constantly striving to refine my technique and artistic identity. I’ve participated in two editions of the West Tattoo Festival in Peniche, and I continue to work and study every day so that one day I can bring home a trophy.

 I now work independently in my own studio, where I’ve developed a way of working that isn’t tied to one style. I prefer to approach each piece as it comes, focusing on the design and the person wearing it. I’m detail-oriented by nature and that carries through in my work, particularly in fineline and black and grey pieces. While I remain adaptable in style, I’m naturally drawn to darker, illustrative themes including florals and animals. In the Scottish Borders you’re never far from castles, ruins & woodland so I can easily seek out inspiration from my surroundings, which naturally feeds into my style & work.