By: Fifty5 PR

From the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro to the bustling tattoo conventions of Europe, Raquel Areias has demonstrated that a combination of artistic passion, determination, and bold decisions can significantly shape one’s life. Known for her dynamic tattoo style that fuses Neotraditional art with elements of realism, Raquel has emerged as one of the prominent tattoo artists in Latin America and is now gaining recognition on the international scene. But how did this Brazilian artist, who began her career in the world of architecture, transition into a highly regarded tattooist with accolades across the globe?

A Leap of Faith in Tattooing

Raquel’s journey into tattooing was a bold and transformative decision. In 2015, after graduating in Architecture and Urbanism, she moved from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro, where major construction projects were underway for the Olympics and the World Cup. Like many creatives who follow a standard career path, she reflects, “Architecture didn’t satisfy my thirst for art, and I decided to take a chance on tattooing, something that had always interested me because I liked drawing.” She adds, “I love architecture, but tattooing became my true passion.”

In 2017, with no professional equipment or a studio of her own, Raquel began tattooing in a small space, learning from other artists and gradually refining her craft. This led to work at Lady Luck and Black Cave studios in Rio, where she spent six years developing her skills and later joining Art Line. Raquel’s dedication to artistic growth eventually earned her recognition, culminating in her first international trip to Amsterdam in 2022.

A Newfound Freedom and Global Impact

A chance encounter with the Brazilian tattoo artist Sérgio Rodrigues, who encouraged her to tattoo abroad, played a key role in propelling her onto the global stage. Raquel notes, “I didn’t feel capable of working outside of Brazil, and he said, ‘Go for it, take a chance, your work is good.'”

By stepping out of her comfort zone, Raquel’s international career has grown significantly, with opportunities in cities like Amsterdam, Dublin, Edinburgh, London, and Scotland. She explains, “As tattoo artists, we don’t have a physical gallery to exhibit our creations because our art lives on people; it circulates around the world. And it’s precisely this idea that fascinates me: discovering the world while leaving a little bit of myself on each skin I mark.”

Tattoo Conventions: Recognition and Awards

Having already started 2025 on a promising note by securing a sponsorship deal with Onyx and winning second place in the Neotraditional category at Tattoo Week Rio de Janeiro, Raquel’s rise to international success began gaining momentum at tattoo conventions.

In 2023, she was awarded first place at Masterink in Juíz de Fora, MG, in the Neotraditional category, and the following year, she achieved recognition at Tattoo Week São Paulo by taking second place. Reflecting on her work, she says, “I work in different styles—realism, watercolor, neo-traditional, cover-ups—which allows me to reach a wider audience and stay creatively engaged.” She has also continued to expand her international presence in Scotland, Ireland, and London, having participated in the Big London Tattoo Show, which has further established her reputation in the global tattoo scene.

A Client-Centered Approach to Tattooing

While many artists focus solely on mastering a particular style, Raquel emphasizes the importance of client satisfaction. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a watercolor tattoo, fine line, or a realism piece of a beloved pet—the essential thing is to deliver the best result for each client,” she underlines. For Raquel, it’s about making an emotional connection with her clients and helping them commemorate significant moments, people, or stories. “Even with the pain involved, I strive to make this experience as positive as possible and always aim to deliver results that exceed expectations,” she says.

Her flexible and eclectic approach to tattooing is rooted in the quality of her work and ensuring that every tattoo remains visually appealing over time. “The tattoo, like the skin itself, undergoes natural changes over the years. That’s why it’s essential that the artist’s focus isn’t just on the photo on Instagram but on durability and long-term results,” she explains.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Like many artists, Raquel faced financial hardships and isolation during the pandemic, which was emotionally taxing. “But it was also during this period that I reinvented myself. I started to draw more, study new techniques—especially realism—and took online drawing and digital art classes. To stay active, I started selling art online and looking for other ways to apply my creativity,” she recalls. Ultimately, this period of seclusion and uncertainty became a time of significant personal and professional growth, allowing her to expand even further internationally.

The foreclosure of her studio where she previously resided presented its own challenges. Yet she embraced this as an opportunity to keep moving forward. “We often feel a bit lost because art doesn’t have a fixed roadmap to follow. And if I were to give advice to other artists, take a chance. Even if you don’t really know what to do, just go and do it.”

Looking Ahead: Charting New Artistic Paths

The tattoo industry is entering a new phase. As Raquel points out, “Materials and techniques have evolved greatly, and the perception of tattoos has also gone through several phases: from something primitive to a symbol of rebellion, to becoming a widely appreciated form of artistic expression.” Tattooing is no longer confined to its rebellious roots.

Instead, it has grown into a respected means of self-expression. Yet some people are opting out of getting tattoos or choosing to remove them entirely. The influx of new talent into the industry has also sparked a creative renaissance, as artists from diverse backgrounds bring fresh perspectives and skills. Meanwhile, the influence of social media and the rise of artificial intelligence are reshaping the future of tattooing, offering new ways to create and enhance designs. The industry’s future may not be predictable, but as Raquel puts it, “As always, those who adapt and keep moving are likely to thrive.”

As for her personal goals, Raquel is determined to push the boundaries of tattoo artistry. With plans to open her own studio in Rio, collaborate with global artists, and expand into wearable art, her next chapter is just beginning. To connect with Raquel, follow her on Instagram or reach out to Fifty5 PR.

Published by Mark V.