Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniela Taran.
Hi Daniela, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My name is Dana, and tattooing isn’t just my job—it’s how I connect with people. My own story took a sharp turn two and a half years ago when my husband and I fled the war in Ukraine and landed straight in Austin, Texas.
I’ve been tattooing for four and a half years now, developing my signature style along the way: fine lines, soft shading, and delicate realism. It turns out that softer touch stands out a bit here in Central Texas, where bolder, traditional styles often take the spotlight. That difference actually helped me find my tribe of clients faster than I ever expected.
I got incredibly lucky finding a shop to call home so quickly after we arrived. The studio is awesome and my team is amazing, but honestly? What I love most are the people walking through the door. Every client brings a completely different story, background, and energy—it keeps every single day fresh and inspiring.
Eventually, I hope to travel and guest-spot at studios all across the U.S. But for now? Austin has my whole heart. This city welcomed two strangers with open arms and gave us a safe place to rebuild. It’s home base, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The first couple of months were humbling, to say the least.
I spent about two months just walking into shops, introducing myself, and showing my portfolio. Over and over again. But here’s the thing: I had no local client base yet. I had nothing to offer from my side except my hands and my hope. So I kept hearing ‘no.’ A lot.
But eventually, the right place found me—or maybe we found each other. I started as a walk-in artist, taking literally everything that came through the door. Tiny hearts, cover-ups, Friday the 13th flash—you name it, I tattooed it. That hustle taught me so much. And slowly, piece by piece, I built a strong portfolio and a reputation.
Before I knew it, walk-ins turned into repeat clients, and repeat clients turned into referrals. Within about a year, I wasn’t chasing work anymore—work was finding me. That’s when I made the switch to appointments only. Honestly? That ‘no’ I kept hearing in the beginning? Best motivation I ever had.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
So, what do I do? I’m a fine line tattoo artist—thin, crisp lines, soft shading, and a delicate touch. Actually, the most common thing I hear from my clients is, ‘Wow, you’re so light-handed!’
I specialize in floral work—that’s what most people know me for. But recently, I’ve started diving into something new: drawing designs based on popular fantasy books. I’m a huge reader myself, so when someone comes in wanting a quote or a symbol from their favorite series, I get it. I know the lore, the vibe, the little details that make it feel authentic. People have been loving that.
What am I most proud of? It’s not just the art—it’s the experience. Tattoos hurt. That’s just reality. But I’m proud that my clients don’t stress out or struggle during the session. I make it as gentle and calm as possible. And I love that I can work with anyone—from an 18-year-old getting their tiny first tattoo to a 65-year-old who wants something soft and elegant. Same care, same precision, same respect.
What sets me apart? I think it’s that combination: technical skill with fine lines, a light hand, and the ability to actually listen to what someone wants and bring it to life exactly as they imagined—or better. Every design is personal. Every session is a conversation. And every client leaves with art that feels truly theirs.
What matters most to you?
What matters most to me? It’s the ‘aftertaste.’
Tattoos are permanent, sure. But the feeling of getting one? That lingers just as long. I want that memory to be sweet, not bitter. So for me, it’s all about creating a safe space—a place where no one feels rushed, judged, or unheard.
And that trust doesn’t start when the needle touches the skin. It starts with the very first message they send me on social media. That’s when I begin building the relationship. I want them to feel seen, respected, and understood long before they ever walk through my door.
After the tattoo is done and healed, I want my clients to look back on that day and smile. Not just at the art on their skin—but at the whole experience. Like it was a little highlight in their life story. That’s what drives me. That’s the ‘aftertaste’ I’m chasing.
Pricing:
- Minimum price is $150
Contact Info:
- Website: https://web.getporter.io/artist/dana
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dana_is_tattooing?igsh=MWI3MXNsOG5iN3JmaQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Gxz8b1C7X/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dana_is_tattooing?si=w9QD5FuRl21cssoD
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisisdanadaniela?_r=1&_t=ZP-98ngJ131RSZ
