Agata Haindl – Tattoo artist inspired by insects

Agata Haindl, please introduce yourself

I am a trained fine artist with over 35 years of experience in art, design development, and marketing.
For the past 14 years, I have been perfecting my craft as a tattoo artist. My passion lies in sharing my extensive expertise—ranging from innovative design concepts and precise techniques to safe working procedures—while setting industry standards in the tattoo world.
I take great joy in inspiring and mentoring other artists on their creative journey.

In 2010, I founded Absolut Art Tattoo, followed by the launch of the Absolut Tattoo Academy in 2018.

What inspires you about insects?

Insects are a fascinating subject in tattoo art, often associated with beauty, strength, and transformation. In many cultures, butterflies symbolize the soul or spirit and embody the idea of rebirth. They represent beauty, freedom, and love while also serving as a sign of new beginnings and profound transformation and renewal.

Beetles, on the other hand, are symbols of fertility, luck, and protection. Closely tied to the earth and the natural cycle of life, they—like bees—represent resilience, endurance, and the ability to overcome challenges.

Why do you visit the ETH Zurich Entomological Collection?

Together with my students from the Tattoo Academy, I visit the ETH insect collection two to three times a year. From the very first day of training, we focus on developing tattoo designs and teaching fundamental principles of design and composition. Each week, students receive new assignments to refine both their creative power and technical skills. Since insects are among the first subjects we work on, it is essential for students to learn careful observation and to engage deeply with the complexity of nature.

Do you have insect tattoos yourself?

Yes, I have two beetles tattooed on my right upper arm. They are not depicted realistically but in a strongly simplified form. Though the tattoo has aged over time and changed slightly, it still brings me joy every day. It remains a personal symbol that has grown with me and continues to hold deep meaning, even in its abstract artistic representation.

Tell us more about your artistic process.

Each tattoo is a unique, custom-made artwork designed to bring the client’s personal story to life on their skin. The process involves a thoughtful and creative consultation, ensuring that the client’s ideas and emotions are at the heart of the design.

A detailed consultation is essential for clear communication. It guarantees that the client’s vision is fully understood and implemented with precision. Discussions focus on design, creative ideas, size, feasibility, and the exact placement of the tattoo. Every detail is carefully considered—from color selection to the way the design complements the body’s natural contours—ensuring that the tattoo remains stunning and meaningful for years to come.

The design process always starts with thorough research. For realistic tattoos, this includes selecting authentic reference images or, in the case of insect tattoos, visiting collections like the one at ETH Zurich.

The tattoo session itself is the moment when the carefully crafted design is permanently etched into the skin. At this decisive moment, the work of art comes to life, with experience and craftsmanship ensuring that the client’s vision is executed with precision. Depending on the size and complexity, the entire process can take anywhere from days to weeks or even months.

What is your favorite tattoo design to create? Why?

Although I am skilled in realistic tattooing, I have consciously chosen to focus on abstract compositions on the body. These designs require not only extensive technical expertise but also a deep understanding of human anatomy, ensuring that the tattoo enhances the body’s natural beauty.