Today’s Inkterview features Saana, an Icelandic tattoo artist and the founder of Taiga INK Helsinki Tattoo. Known for her refined style and strong artistic voice, Saana has built a studio that reflects both Nordic minimalism and personal storytelling.

• Introduce yourself: how much time tattooing / why did you start tattooing?

My name is Saana, I’m the founder of Taiga Ink in Helsinki, Finland. I’ve been tattooing for almost 14 years now. I started tattooing because I’ve always been fascinated by symbolism, mythology, and how art can carry deep personal meaning. Tattooing felt like the most powerful medium to bring stories to life on skin, something that stays and grows with the person.

• How do you see the tattoo sector?

I see tattooing becoming more respected as an art form every year. The barrier between fine art, fashion, and tattoo culture is fading. More people are seeking tattoos not just as decoration, but as a form of identity, memory, and ritual.

• How do you see the culture of tattoos in 10 years?

In 10 years, I believe tattoos will be fully integrated into mainstream culture – but at the same time, unique and deeply personal tattoos will be more valued than ever. People will search for authenticity and meaning in their pieces, and artists will push boundaries in both style and concept.

• How do you see the evolution of tattoos in Finland?

In Finland the scene has grown fast in the past decade. We have a strong mix of Nordic heritage and modern influences, and I believe Finnish tattoo culture will continue to embrace both minimalism and deep symbolism. I also see more international recognition coming for Finnish artists.

• What is the most curious thing / an anecdote that has happened to you since you became a tattoo artist

One of the most surprising things is how often people open up about their lives in the tattoo chair. I’ve been told secrets, stories, and memories that feel like rituals in themselves. Sometimes the session becomes almost therapeutic, and that always reminds me of the responsibility and honor of this craft.

• If you could tattoo any person, living or deceased, who would it be and why?

I would choose Väinämöinen from Finnish mythology – the shamanic hero of Kalevala. His whole being represents wisdom, memory, and song, which is close to how I see tattooing: carrying stories across time. Lord of the Ring is also based on Kalevala mythology.

• If you could collaborate with any other artist, who would it be and what kind of project would you work on together?

I would love to collaborate with an installation or performance artist – creating a piece that combines live tattooing, ritual, and visual storytelling in a gallery setting.

• Is it disrespectful to ask a tattoo artist for a discount? It happens in Finland?

Yes, I think so. Tattooing is not just about the ink, it’s about the years of practice, the emotional energy, and the uniqueness of each piece. Asking for a discount undervalues the work.

• What do you think about getting a tattoo under anesthesia?

Personally, I think tattoos should be felt. Pain is part of the ritual, part of the memory. Removing it would remove some of the meaning – but of course, everyone has different limits.

• AI yes or no?

Yes – as long as it’s a tool, not a replacement for the artist. AI can inspire, but the human touch and intent behind a tattoo can never be replaced.

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