Pro Artist of the month – Ta2pawel

September 04, 2025 - 3 months ago

His work is eye-catching, he’s worked at some of the best London studios around, and his surname is hard to spell… the latest Magnum Pro Artist of the month can only be Pawel Szczepanski, aka Ta2pawel!

Hailing from Poland but now settled down-south, Pawel is one of the top artists in the UK today and it’s easy to see why when you look at the standard of his work and the techniques he employs to create them.

We spoke to Pawel about splitting his time between two studios, his love of the iconic Trash Polka style, and what gets his adrenaline going outside of tattooing.

How did you get into tattooing and what inspired you to pursue it as a full-time career?

I started really young, around 16. I’d always loved drawing and creating things, so when I discovered a friend had built a DIY tattoo machine, it was like lightning struck. I went home, tore apart some electronics, built my own, and started practicing on fruits… until eventually I moved on to real skin. From then on, I knew this was my path.

Who or what has had the biggest influence on your tattooing style?

Honestly, inspiration comes from everywhere – art, posters in the underground, even random ideas while walking my dog. But if I had to choose, the biggest influence has been Trash Polka artists, because of the raw combination of realism and graphic chaos.

How would you describe your current style and how has it evolved since the beginning?

I’d say bold, dramatic, and very client-focused. My main love is Trash Polka, but I also really enjoy dotwork, geometric, Polynesian/Maori, and blackwork.

In the beginning, I was just copying what I saw. Now, I build custom art around each person – the tattoo becomes part of their story.

Are there any subjects or styles you would like to try or do more of?

I’d love to do more large freehand Polynesian/neo-tribal work, and I’ve also been playing with the idea of mixing geometric minimalism with realism. Less boundaries, more freedom.

What studios do you work at and what made you make the move to it?

Right now, I split my time between Nowak Tattoo in Hounslow and Black Tapestry Tattoo in Deptford. Both have a great vibe, super talented artists, and I wanted my clients to always feel they’re in good hands no matter which studio they visit.

Why do you choose to split your time between two studios?

It gives my clients more flexibility – some prefer Hounslow, others Deptford. Plus, working in different environments keeps me inspired and sharp.

Why is London the perfect place for you to work?

London is buzzing with diversity, culture, and energy. Every client brings something new – from cultural influences to personal stories. It’s impossible not to feel inspired here.

What three places would you recommend for someone visiting London for the first time?

1. Camden Market – for the alternative vibe
2. Tate Modern – for creative inspiration
3. And of course, Hounslow or Deptford – to get a tattoo from me!

What advice would you give to someone getting their first tattoo or considering a career in tattooing?

For clients: trust your artist, don’t overthink, and definitely don’t drink the night before.

For aspiring tattooists: draw, draw, draw… and have patience. Mastery doesn’t come overnight.

Can you describe your client process from initial consultation to finished tattoo?

First we chat – in person, on the phone, or WhatsApp. I listen to the idea, suggest directions, and sometimes prepare a quick mock-up. Then I design, place it onto their body photo, make adjustments together, and only when they’re 100% happy, we tattoo.

What are your go-to tattoo brands?

JCONLY needles, Dan Kubin and Cheyenne machines, Panthera inks, and of course Biotat aftercare.

How has using Biotat taken your aftercare to the next level?

It’s natural, vegan, and my clients love how it reduces redness and swelling. It makes healing smoother and tattoos look better, faster.

What’s your favourite tattoo on your own body?

That’s impossible to choose – I like them all. My Fallout piece, my Batman tattoo… but probably my hand, which was done by Julia Szewczykowska.

How does the tattooing scene differ between the UK and Poland?

When I started out, the tattoo scene in Poland was tiny and tattoos weren’t so popular. Now, it’s just as big – maybe even bigger – than in the UK. There are amazing conventions and so many incredibly talented artists. Both countries have amazing energy in their own way.

Have you collaborated with any artists on a piece before and who would be your dream collab?

Yes, I’ve done collaborations. My dream collab would be with Volko Merschky and Simone Pfaff – the creators of Trash Polka. That would be insane.

What music is usually playing in your headphones or studio while you’re tattooing?

Anything from metal and rock to rap and chill electronic. Sometimes even film soundtracks – it all depends on the mood of the tattoo and the vibe with the client.

What are your favourite hobbies outside of tattooing?

Definitely mountain biking (MTB). It was my passion when I was younger, and a few years ago I managed to return to it. Honestly, I can’t imagine my life without it now – it clears my head and gives me a crazy adrenaline rush.

Have you worked any conventions this year, and do you have any more lined up before the end of 2025?

This year has been packed with clients, so I haven’t done as many conventions as I’d like. But yes, I’ll be at the Big London Tattoo Show from September 19–21, and I’ll probably fit in at least one more before the year is out.

What is next for Ta2pawel?

Bigger projects, more collaborations, and continuing to push Trash Polka and custom designs to the next level. I want to keep building unique, large-scale pieces. For now, it’s about growth, creativity, and making sure every client walks away with something they’ll love forever.

A huge thank you to Pawel for taking part in our interview this month. Make sure to check out his work, as well as upcoming conventions and collaborations, on Instagram at @ta2pawel and give him a follow!