"Great experience. Ivan sat down with me to work through the design and made sure it was exactly what I wanted. He works calmly and was very flexible with scheduling. The tattoo came out clean and even better than expected. Highly recommend him - incredibly talented."
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Artistic foundation.
Personal process.
I approach every tattoo as an original composition - with attention to light, form, movement, and its placement on the body.
I trained in classical fine art at the Angel Academy of Art in Florence and worked as a tattoo artist in Chicago. That experience shapes the way I build composition and adapt design to the body.
Ivan IvanovBlack & Grey Realism ArtistFlorence · Chicago · Plovdiv
REVIEWS
What Clients Say
Google reviews of my work at Chicago Realism Tattoos.
"The best tattoo experience I've had. Ivan is an incredibly talented artist. I love how detailed the tattoo is and how well he tied it into my other work. The end result is exactly what I wanted. Worth every penny."
"Ivan is incredibly talented and has a great eye. I came to him with an idea for a memorial tattoo for my father, and he captured every nuance. You can trust him with both the design and the whole experience. People stop me constantly to ask about the tattoo."
"I can't recommend Ivan enough. His realism is on another level, his linework is clean, and his strongest quality is his sense of composition. He doesn't just tattoo - he creates work that follows the body. He takes the time to understand the idea, offer thoughtful solutions, and build a design you'll be proud of."
Source: Google Reviews for Chicago Realism Tattoos
See the original reviews ↗
PROCESS
How the Process Works
Clear, without unnecessary complication.
Send Your Idea
Placement, approximate size, timing, and references if you have them.
We Align on Direction
We discuss the idea together and arrive at a direction for the composition, number of sessions, and budget.
We Develop and Execute
The composition follows the body's lines and placement, before we move to the tattooing itself.
INVESTMENT
A Guide to the Investment
Each project is priced individually based on the idea, size, placement, and number of sessions required. Most custom projects begin at around €400. For larger projects that require multiple sessions, a package rate for a full-day session may be offered.
Preparation, design development, consultation, and placement on the body are included in the total project price and are not charged separately.
Prep
Design
Placement
Aftercare PDF
Once I review your idea, you'll receive an initial guide to the number of sessions required and the approximate total budget before we book a date.
IF YOU'RE FROM OUT OF TOWN
If you're not based in Plovdiv, sessions can be planned to make the process as convenient and practical as possible for you.
FAQ
Before You Send an Inquiry
Does my idea need to be fully finished?
No. It's enough to describe the core idea and send references if you have any. The direction is built together.
When will I see the design?
The final design is usually developed at the start of the first session. For larger or more complex projects, we may do a short online consultation beforehand.
How is the price determined?
Each project is priced individually based on the idea, size, placement, and number of sessions required. Most custom projects begin at around €400. After reviewing your idea, you'll receive a guide to the sessions required and the approximate total budget.
Is a deposit required?
Yes. If the project is a good fit, after reviewing your idea I'll send a booking deposit link that confirms your date and is deducted from the total project price.
Do I get aftercare instructions?
Yes. After the session you'll receive a PDF with detailed aftercare instructions for the full healing period.
How is hygiene ensured?
I've completed a course and hold a Bloodborne Pathogens certification. I follow strict hygiene standards, using single-use needles and materials.
Does it hurt a lot?
The sensation depends on the placement and personal pain threshold, but most longer sessions are entirely manageable. We take breaks as needed to keep the whole process comfortable.
Are there any contraindications?
Tattooing isn't recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, with certain skin conditions, or while taking certain medications (e.g. blood thinners). If you have a health-related question, message me before booking a date.
Can I travel from another city?
Yes. If you're traveling from further away, I can be flexible with your schedule and plan the project to minimize the number of trips needed - for example with back-to-back sessions when that suits the project.
INQUIRY
Tell Me About Your Project
Send me the core idea, placement, and approximate size. I'll get back to you with an initial guide on the right scale, number of sessions, and budget.
I take on a limited number of larger projects and work with only one client per day. I'm currently accepting new projects for late July and August. I respond within 24-48 hours - if the project is a good fit, I'll send a deposit link that confirms your date and is deducted from the total price.