FRENKO GHOST - From Germany to USA
2025-11-18

In this exclusive interview for Tattoo Love, we dive into the world of Frenko Ghost, a 31-year-old tattoo artist passionate about realism.

From his self-taught beginnings to his dedication to the tattoo family, Frenko shares his artistic vision, his love for black metal, and some fun anecdotes, like the tattoo he got after losing a bet.

With a rebellious and authentic attitude, he reveals his life philosophy: ''Stay focused and keep going''. Want to know more?

Keep reading to discover the essence of this fucking badass in the tattoo world.

Evolution: beginnings, styles, preferences, influences...

How and when did you start your career in the tattoo industry?
When I was 13 years old, I used to watch Miami Ink, and I told myself I was going to be a tattoo artist. I started tattooing when I was 21.

How would you describe the evolution of your style over the years?
Over the years, my style has changed a lot. It has become more flexible, more realistic, finer, with more sensitivity. All of this is something you learn over time, because you can't learn it overnight, and I’m really proud of that.

What inspired you to specialize in realistic tattooing?
I've always been interested in realism, in capturing life, the atmosphere, the mystique, everything. When you look at a realistic picture, you say "wow" because it looks more than just like a portrait—it’s beautiful. Realism is a style where you can really showcase your skills.

What is your creative process when designing a realistic tattoo?
My creative process usually involves looking for inspiration in art museums, from other artists and painters. That's how I come up with all the breathtaking ideas for my designs. It also depends on how it’s done—if the client gives me free rein, I can create very beautiful things.

Did you have any mentors or role models when you started out?
I didn’t have any mentors or teachers. I taught myself everything. I started in the basement of my house and worked my way up to where I am now, and I’m proud of that.

Do you prefer working in color or in black and grey? Why?
For me, it doesn’t matter much whether I work in black and grey or color, but color comes across as more lively. I find color really brings out the vibrancy, though black and grey can also look great. But with color, it just feels more alive.

What techniques or tools do you consider essential for achieving high-quality realistic tattoos?
I use all the needle machines from my sponsors. I'm sponsored, so I get all the needles from them, and that's why I trust them.

How do you handle the technical challenges of realistic tattoos, such as fine details or integrating the design into the body?
For me, it's not about whether the design is subtle or realistic, or how it's transferred onto the body. It's about taking the time to work through every detail.

Where are you currently working, and how did you choose that location?
I had two shops in Germany, but I'm now relocating them to the USA.

Do you work independently or in a studio with other artists?
I work with other tattoo artists.

How would you describe the atmosphere and dynamics of the Studio?
The atmosphere is amazing—always motivated, never down, full of energy. It's just unique.

How do you stay up-to-date with new trends and techniques in the tattoo world?
I'm very well-connected in the tattoo world. I know a lot of people, and I work closely with my sponsors, so I always stay updated with the latest trends.

How do you see the future of realistic tattooing in the industry?
I hope the tattoo industry gets bigger and more popular. I also hope the envy in the industry fades and that everyone starts working together in the future.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to specialize in realistic tattoos?
I would advise you to paint a lot—do lots of portraits and realism. Also, find a good team to learn from, because having a solid team can help you progress quickly.

Is there any project or type of tattoo that you haven't done yet but would like to take on in the future?
Yes, there are a few projects I haven't finished yet because I'm always traveling and tattooing everywhere. But soon, I'll take the time to complete everything. I've also tattooed at many famous festivals.

His most personal side...

Age: 31.

Hobbies: Tattooing, painting, and relaxing with my family and tattoo family.

Favorite music: Black metal.

Do you have any tattoo that means something funny or curious to you? Yes, I lost a bet.

If your life were a movie or a soundtrack, what would it be? Lords of Chaos.

If you could have dinner with any tattoo artist from the past or present, who would it be and why? Nobody, only with my girlfriend.

How would you describe yourself in 3 words? Fucking badass.

Anything personal you would like to add? Something you haven't said in another interview and would like to confess? Stay focused and keep going.

FRENKO GHOST (USA) - SHOP: FOLTERKAMMER TATTOO

Contact Frenko to request information about his seminars.

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FRENKO GHOST - From Germany to USA2025-11-18

FRENKO GHOST - From Germany to USA
2025-11-18