Certified Artist 2026

Emilia "Red Head" Poenaru

Colour Storytelling & Emotional Realism

Interview

How did you first get into tattooing, and what originally attracted you to this profession?

My family background is deeply rooted in the arts — oil painting, artistic photography, literature, sketching, theatre, and music were all part of my upbringing. I had the privilege of watching creativity being crafted in front of me, making it my normal environment.

I discovered tattoos during my teenage years, in what still felt like a “forbidden” era of the craft, reserved for a certain part of society. Tattooing wasn’t an obvious choice at first. It had to grow in my heart and soul — and the world also needed to evolve before I felt the inner call to prepare my portfolio and search for a mentor.

It wasn’t easy, and it didn’t happen quickly. It unfolded when the time felt karmically right.

How would you describe your artistic identity today, especially working across colour, cartoon, and realism styles?

Today, my identity is driven by challenge, versatility, and the desire to tell captivating stories through tattooing. It’s a constant hunger for improvement and discovery.

Colour plays a central role in my expression. It allows me to transfer intense emotion, atmosphere, and energy into a piece. Whether I create a memorial portrait or a favorite game theme, I feel like I’ve lived another life through it. That emotional immersion is the greatest reward.

What draws you to colourful and cartoon-inspired work, and how do you balance it with realism?

Colour wasn’t my first language. My early drawings were made with pencils, charcoal, and ink, which naturally translated into blackwork and black-and-grey tattoos at the beginning of my career.

Colour entered my path later, through formal painting education and mentorship. What draws me to it is the discipline and focus it requires. I consider colour technically more demanding, which is exactly why I’m drawn to it.

I balance my styles carefully by managing my calendar and allowing myself proper rest. I regularly visit museums, galleries, theatres, and classical music concerts to keep my creative energy fresh and inspired.

Can you describe your creative process when designing a custom tattoo?

I start by connecting with the client’s vibe. Through consultation, I gather references, discuss placement, size, expectations, and budget. Often, an initial concept forms in my mind early on — but I let it rest for a day or two before committing to it.

If the idea still feels right after that pause, I develop it fully. I usually present the design on the day of the session, and fortunately, it rarely requires major revisions — only small cosmetic adjustments that don’t affect the flow of the appointment.

How do you adapt different styles to the body’s natural flow and to each client’s personality?

It begins with careful listening, empathy, and respect for the craft. I immerse myself in the client’s world — watching films, playing games, reading books, or even meeting the pets I tattoo as portraits.

Understanding their motivation allows me to create not only the right design but also a meaningful experience. I follow their energy and personality — and from there, the tattoo reveals what it needs to become.

What technical aspects are most important to ensure clean execution and longevity?

Continuous research into needles, inks, and techniques is essential. There is always room for improvement, and ego must stay in the pocket.

Traveling for conventions and guest spots accelerated my growth the most. Observing other artists — learning what to do and what not to do — has been invaluable.

How do you approach communication and collaboration during the tattoo process?

I dedicate the entire session to my client. I remain open and honest, and that transparency is always returned.

If a client enjoys conversation, we can talk for hours and share music and ideas. If they are introverted, we discuss everything beforehand and allow them space to relax with music or a book during the session. My goal is to make the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

What inspires you outside of tattooing, and how does it influence your work?

Everything inspires me — games, books, films, museums, galleries, conventions, travel, nature, and time with family. Forest walks, birdwatching, archery, and horse riding all contribute to my creative balance.

Sports are equally important. I practice Tae Kwon Do, run regularly, and do calisthenics to stay connected with my body. Avoiding burnout is essential to maintaining creative potential.

But above all, it’s people who inspire me most.

How do you see the evolution of colour and illustrative tattooing today?

Colour tattooing is evolving at an extraordinary pace. Each year brings new levels of sophistication, artistic depth, and technical refinement. It feels more elevated and developed than ever before.

I feel fortunate to witness this evolution firsthand and excited about what the future will bring.

What artistic goals would you like to pursue in the coming years?

I am still very much in a learning phase — and I believe that never truly ends.

Currently, I’m focused on improving textures, fire and light effects, realistic skies and galaxies, as well as refining my approach to portraits and skin tones. There is always another level to reach.