Natalie Nox, co-owner of the Silver Letter Gallery in Athens with Benjamin Laukis, has carved a unique niche in the tattoo world with her captivating abstract realism style. For those intrigued by the seemingly contradictory term, “abstract realism,” Natalie expertly blends the unstructured freedom of abstract art with the grounded essence of realism. This interview delves into Natalie’s artistic journey, exploring how she developed her signature style and what makes her Abstract Tattoos so distinctive.
Natalie Nox portrait, showcasing her expertise in abstract tattoo art
Natalie, who was born in Ukraine but raised in Athens since the age of five, always had a passion for art. Initially drawn to architecture, her path shifted unexpectedly when a suggestion to apprentice at a local tattoo shop opened up a new artistic avenue. “In the beginning I started for fun,” Natalie recalls, “but soon I fell in love with all aspects of tattooing. From the art and the people to the community and so much more. I then couldn’t see myself doing anything else.” This initial foray into tattooing sparked a dedicated career, leading her to become the acclaimed abstract tattoo artist she is today.
Abstract tattoo on arm, demonstrating Natalie Nox's signature style
Her journey to specializing in abstract tattoos was a gradual evolution. Starting her tattoo career in 2011, Natalie immersed herself in a wide range of tattoo styles. “At the beginning of my career I had to go through almost every style of tattooing from black work and lettering to new school to realism and everything in between,” she explains. This diverse experience proved crucial in honing her technical skills and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the nuances of tattooing across different placements and styles. This broad foundation ultimately paved the way for her specialization.
Abstract lines and shapes tattoo, highlighting organic flow and abstract realism
“Slowly over the years you start to specialize in a style that comes easier and makes you happy,” Natalie reflects. For her, that style was abstract and abstract realism. Her deep dive into the study of body movement and natural forms like rock formations and tree silhouettes heavily influences her work. These natural elements, when translated onto skin, take on an abstract appearance yet maintain an organic feel. This is the core of her “abstract realism” – tattoos that appear uniquely abstract while being rooted in the realistic forms of nature. The appeal of abstract tattoos, for Natalie, lies in their unique visual language on the skin.
Back tattoo with abstract organic patterns, showcasing Natalie Nox's understanding of body flow
When creating her distinctive abstract tattoos, Natalie operates with a unique set of principles. “For me the abstract design allows you to be creative in an organic way,” she states. She often foregoes traditional stencils, preferring to draw directly on the skin using brushes and NOXVIOLET, her stencil liquid ink. This technique allows for spontaneous splashes and brushstrokes that naturally complement the body’s curves. This freehand approach is central to achieving the organic aesthetic she is known for in abstract tattoo art.
Close-up of abstract tattoo application, demonstrating freehand technique and brushstrokes
Natalie believes that “abstract needs imperfections to make it perfect.” She intentionally avoids a “photoshop design perfect” look, embracing slight irregularities that contribute to the tattoo’s unique character. However, this pursuit of imperfect perfection is also what makes abstract tattooing challenging. “It takes a lot of time and practice to find the right balance to put just enough without everything looking too messy or chaotic,” she admits. Finding this equilibrium between intentional imperfection and cohesive design is key to the success of her abstract tattoo style.
Abstract tattoo with intentional imperfections, highlighting the balance in Natalie Nox's work
Over time, Natalie has cultivated a client base that trusts her artistic vision. “After many years I’m proud to say that most if not all of my clients are coming to me mostly with just a simple idea and a spot in mind and leave me create something based on my work.” Clients often approach her with a general concept and preferred body placement, granting her creative freedom to develop a design that is uniquely theirs. Natalie typically prepares 2-3 initial options on her iPad as starting points. From these, client feedback guides the final design, which she then paints directly onto the body, ensuring a truly custom abstract tattoo experience.
Abstract tattoo design process on iPad, showcasing initial concept development
Technical precision is paramount in Natalie’s style, and her equipment choices reflect this. She relies on Cheyenne tattoo equipment, praising the brand for its quality and craftsmanship. Having experimented with various machines and needles throughout her career, Cheyenne consistently stood out. She utilizes Cheyenne needles, including 3L, 7 Shader, and 23-Magnum-se, and machines, currently favoring the SOL NOVA UNLIMITED 3.5. “That helps me a lot as it is a strong and precise machine for my work and gives me freedom of movement,” Natalie explains, emphasizing the importance of reliable tools in achieving the intricate details of her abstract tattoos.
Natalie Nox using Cheyenne tattoo equipment, emphasizing the importance of precision tools
In January 2020, Natalie and Benjamin Laukis established the Silver Letter Gallery, a private tattoo studio in the heart of Athens. Athens was a natural choice for their studio location. “We chose Athens as I was already established here and it’s easier for us to travel within Europe and for our clients to visit compared to Australia where Benjamin is from,” Natalie explains. She appreciates the city’s vibrant atmosphere, artistic character, and urban energy, making it an ideal base for their international clientele and collaborative projects.
Interior of Silver Letter Gallery in Athens, highlighting the studio's artistic environment
Natalie Nox and Benjamin Laukis in their studio, Silver Letter Gallery
Beyond tattooing, Natalie prioritizes physical well-being and draws inspiration from nature. She engages in activities like tennis and flexibility exercises to maintain physical health, crucial for tattoo artists. She also finds creative fuel in nature, often spending time with her dog, Atlas, and photographing natural textures like rock patterns and leaves. These natural observations are not only for aesthetic development but also inspire her future aspirations in fine art, hinting at an evolution of her abstract artistic expressions beyond skin.
Natalie Nox with her dog Atlas in nature, showcasing her sources of inspiration
Close-up of rock patterns, reflecting Natalie Nox's nature-inspired abstract tattoo designs
Abstract tattoo on leg with flowing lines, embodying Natalie Nox's organic style
Abstract tattoo on back with geometric and organic shapes, demonstrating Natalie Nox's versatility
Full body abstract tattoo, displaying large-scale abstract artwork by Natalie Nox
Natalie Nox smiling portrait, encouraging viewers to explore abstract tattoo art
For those captivated by the world of abstract tattoos and seeking a unique piece of body art, Natalie Nox at Silver Letter Gallery in Athens offers an exceptional fusion of abstract artistry and organic realism. Her dedication to her craft and unique approach make her a standout artist in the contemporary tattoo scene.
Follow Natalie Nox on Instagram: @natalienox
