Jessica Svartvit is the German tattoo artist making incredible ornamental pieces that truly flow with the shape of the body.

Based in her own tattoo studio Svarthaus near Hamburg, Jessica’s work is predominantly black and grey with the occasional splash of colour, and frequently involves floral and ornamental motifs.

We spoke to Jessica about her experience setting up Svarthaus after the destruction of her previous shop, how her designs consider the flow of the human body, and potential names for her unique tattoo style!

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A goldsmith, marine biologist, stonemason, chef... One thing was clear: I always wanted to create or explore things with my hands, but with room for creative thoughts.

How long have you been tattooing, and who helped you or inspired you the most at the beginning of your career?

I have been in this industry for 11 years as of this month. When I started out, my biggest role models were Samuele Briganti and Nikko Hurtado. Their styles could hardly be more different to mine, but both have something about their work that still enchants me today: the love for the craft, the details and the tattoo as a whole. Every tattoo by these two artists is thought through from start to finish. Both artists as people are totally successful and yet still punk rock. That has always impressed me.

How did you decide to set up The Svarthaus, and who works there with you?

After my first studio was destroyed overnight by a flood in 2023, it was time for something completely new for me, away from the classic street shop on the promenade with a reception counter and large windows. I wanted it to be more intimate and personal, with more heart, more time and individuality for every single client.

So it's all the nicer that I was able to set up Svarthaus, a small place in the countryside of Hamburg that knows no boundaries for creative expression and openness, with my fiancé Pi Stoffers. As a chaotic artist, I am so grateful for this person who keeps an overview, can make rational decisions when I act too impulsively, and is structured and organised enough to manage it all.

The Svarthaus is made of and with love, and is a place for everyone who wants to have a good and safe time!

How would you describe your signature style?

To be honest, I still have no idea. I would describe it as a dynamic, often a floral and ornamental fusion of black and line work. I like to play with hard but detailed contrasts, colours and patterns, and try to let them flow with the body.

How about “NEO FLOW”?

What’s the furthest anyone has travelled for a piece from you, and what was the tattoo?

9 years ago, a lady from Brazil travelled all the way to southern Germany for a mandala on her upper arm. Still unforgettable and absurd for me today, just like all the wonderful people from everywhere in the world that choose to visit me!

Your work is characterised by infrequent use of single colour, often teal - how do you select this colour ink?

The colour must harmonise well with deep blacks, which for me means high contrast, rare colour fusion, bright but not too penetrating. And the pigments have to be able to be well-encapsulated in the skin for years, as I often play with pure coloured outlines.

How does the organic flow of the human body affect your designs?

The organic flow is the framework for everything I design. No house without a foundation.

What is your favorite tattoo that you’ve done in the last year?

I started the freehand front of Pi. For the first time I tried to highlight every single muscle, play with hard contrasts and create something timeless and big. And despite the pain, we simply had an incredible amount of fun during the sessions. Can’t wait to finish this project this summer!

Do you have a minimum size of tattoos that you’d work on?

I want all my details and small fine lines and dots to settle crisp and lasting, so I need at least half of a body part. For example, a half sleeve or a chest piece. Also, the larger the design, the better it flows. I would say roughly 30-40 cm at the very least.

How long does it take you to do the initial stencil placement and edits for a bodysuit?

The initial stencil placement for a bodysuit is never done in one sitting, so it is hard to tell. I would say “as long as everyone is absolutely happy”, as any tattoo is something that deserves the utmost attention to every single detail.

Why do you prefer not to tattoo images of faces any more?

Faces always have expressions and feelings, which can change quickly in motion. By that I mean that the proportions of a face don't give me enough leeway and there are definitely much better and more experienced artists who specialise in faces.

What are your favorite motifs to work into your pieces?

Dynamic living objects, negative patterns, and weird unexpected fusions of ornamental and floral work.

Can you talk us through your workstation please?

I only use Cheyenne machines and needles, however I am very glad that I worked with coil machines for 7 years and had to solder my own needles, so I know the luxury that I have now! I always rely on Fusion Ink for colour. During the session I use Balm's Dragon Blood Butter to soothe the skin and ensure a consistent good smell for myself.

How long have you been shopping with Killer Ink, and what are your most-ordered products?

I think I made my first Killer Ink order about 11 years ago and my last one a month ago. My favorite products are definitely the Bubble Gum green (or rather pink) soap. Basically I order almost all my consumables from Killer Ink, like bed covers, grip tape, skin tape, sanitiser etc. And also my new tattoo chair!

Who are your favorite kinds of customers?

Those who are always themselves. The ones who don't have to prove anything to me or themselves and, just like me, try to have as much fun as possible with the progress. Oh, and I love punctuality and communication. Maybe that's something very German inside of me!

Which tattoo artists are doing amazing work right now?

Frank Danisch, Laura Hochmond, Filouino and Lorena Morato. Whether they have a lot or little experience in the industry, they all remain true to their style and are unique. I love that!

How many tattoos do you have, and which is your favourite?

Unfortunately, I can't count that because my whole body is completely full.

My favourite tattoo is my Bob Ross walrus. A full colour walrus with a great hairstyle who is currently painting an idyllic landscape aka happy little accidents on canvas and is happier than ever.

What else do you enjoy doing outside of tattooing?

I have a podcast called Gina's Room with my fiancé where we talk about creativity and inspiration. I like to paint on canvas, I consume a lot of music (collecting vinyls, concerts) and I recently started baking bread.

Do you have any conventions or guest spots lined up for 2025?

I’m going to visit Gotamar Tattoo in Tenerife, Atelier Hochmond in Vienna and 19:28 Tattoo Barcelona in 2025, so far.

What does the future hold for Jessica Svartvit?

Fun and probably a very bad body posture…

Huge thanks to Jessica for answering all our questions about her incredible tattoo art! Check out more incredible “neo flow” pieces on Instagram, listen to the Gina’s Room podcast, or check out Svarthaus studio in Hamburg!