Fine line tattoos, once dismissed as a fleeting trend, are now a celebrated art form, and as part of this movement is Munich-based tattoo artist Myra Brodsky. With over 18 years of experience etching stories onto skin, Brodsky has witnessed the evolution of tattooing firsthand, and her journey is as captivating as the delicate designs she creates.
“Fine line tattoos crept into the tattoo world very quietly through the back door,” Brodsky reflects, recalling her time in the United States. “When I was still living in the States, people made fun of them. My colleagues and I thought the trend would fade quickly. The thin lines were seen as Instagram-friendly but not as sustainable, well-executed work.”
But Brodsky’s adaptability and artistic vision have allowed her to not only embrace the style, but to elevate it. Her approach goes beyond simply applying ink; it’s about understanding the narratives that clients want to express. “Even though the style is different from traditional tattooing, I still love anything that tells a story,” she explains. “Listening to people and finding motifs that suit them is something I really enjoy.”
This dedication to storytelling is evident in her current project: a fine line rendition of Botticelli’s iconic “Birth of Venus.” “I’m really looking forward to it,” she shares, her enthusiasm palpable. This project is a testament to her ability to translate classic art into modern, intricate tattoos, proving that the fine line style can be both delicate and powerful.
Brodsky’s career has taken her across the globe. After beginning her journey in Berlin, she honed her craft during years in the USA and has worked in major cities like Los Angeles and New York City, along with guest spots and convention appearances in London, Paris, Copenhagen, Vienna, and Zurich. “With my art, I traveled extensively,” she says, emphasizing her diverse experiences that have shaped her unique style, which is ever-evolving.
Nearly three years ago, Brodsky chose Munich as her new home, a city where she finally feels rooted. “Here, in the heart of the city, I’m determined to offer you the best service,” she affirms. Brodsky is dedicated to providing her clients with a personalized experience, from initial design consultations all the way through the healing process. She is “happy to personally accompany my clientele and am always available to answer any questions.”
Her shop caters to everyone. “I came to Munich thinking that the city would have a tattoo scene similar to Berlin or Cologne. but in reality, there isn’t really a scene at all,” she said. “Tattoos here are more of a fashion statement, and my clientele spans many different groups. From very young girls who have just turned 18 to fully tattooed individuals and even elegant older Munich ladies, everyone gets tattoos here. Tattoos are for everyone.”
Myra Brodsky’s journey is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of tattoo art. Once skeptical, she now stands as a passionate advocate for fine line tattooing, demonstrating its capacity to tell profound stories with incredible detail and grace. For those seeking a unique and personal piece of art, Brodsky’s Munich studio offers not just a tattoo, but a collaborative journey into the world of storytelling etched onto skin.
Her current inspirations include C.G. Jung’s hand-painted images in his Red Book, which she counts as fascinating. “I try to express dreams and emotions in my own artwork as well, though mine are, of course, much more figurative and should be understandable to everyone,” she said. “Hidden messages are intriguing, and I enjoy riddles. Maybe I’m simply trying to develop a more penetrating visual language to convey a deeper, more profound message.”
Though she didn’t start out as a fine line tattoo artist, the style has grown in popularity.
“Fine line tattoos crept into the tattoo world very quietly through the back door; when I was still living in the States, people made fun of them,” said Brodsky. “My colleagues and I thought the trend would fade quickly. The thin lines were seen as Instagram-friendly but not as sustainable, well-executed work.”
The trend of fine line tattoos started in 2018, according to Brodsky, and grew over the years that followed. Tattoo machine companies have “pen style” tattoo machines, which offer smooth results.
“Fine line tattoos have a big advantage: when they’re small, there’s almost no right or wrong when it comes to placement,” she said.
“Some people even choose their neck or hand for their first tattoo,” said Brodsky.
‘Since the designs are so delicate and small, people aren’t as hesitant about visible placements. However, the most popular spots are the arms, ankle, and rib cage area.”
Follow @myra.brodsky on Instagram.
Tattooed Mag 