Milan Kotiev, a professional tattoo artist known for his hyper-realistic, pencil-like black-and-gray work, is elevating the craft as a proud member of the Grip Needles Pro Team. With over eight years of experience, Kotiev has carved a niche for himself, specializing in the intricate and demanding 3RL black-and-gray style, attributing his signature quality and efficiency to his choice of advanced tattooing equipment.
Kotiev's journey led him through various styles. Still, he ultimately found his calling in the precision of black-and-gray realism. His technique hinges on the 3RL (Round Liner) needle, which he notes gives his tattoos the look of a fine art pencil drawing — his artistic signature.
"3RL reminded me of pencil drawing and that became my signature," Kotiev explains. "Working in this manner is akin to doing jewelry work on something beautiful."
The Power of Specialized Needles: Hybrid Flats and Triads
To achieve the blend of clean detail and smooth shading required by his high-contrast realism, Kotiev relies heavily on specialized Grip Needles, particularly the Hybrid Flats and Triads. He asserts that these hybrid configurations have dramatically improved both his speed and the overall quality of his work.
"Hybrid needles let me work faster and with better quality. I don't know how I worked without them before," Kotiev states.
He highlights the specific applications of the tools:
Hybrid Flats are deemed "perfect for hair and fur," facilitating a "soft, smooth, quick" process that makes his detail work easier.
Triangle Flats are essential for both swiftly filling large dark areas and creating the soft transitions vital to realism shading.
Overcoming the Challenges of Realism
Black-and-gray realism is notoriously challenging, primarily in achieving a contrasty, three-dimensional look while maintaining smooth shading in small details. Kotiev credits the consistent quality of his tools with helping him master these hurdles.
"The right needles make this easier and give me control for both soft tones and sharp lines," he says. "Grip Needles are stable, sharp, and consistent. I can focus fully on the art, not worry about the tool."
Kotiev's collaboration with Grip Needles began after hearing positive feedback from peers and being impressed by the needles' performance. He considers representing the Pro Team an "honor," as it allows him to showcase the quality of the tools "at a big stage."
A New Chapter in America
Milan Kotiev's career took a significant turn when he moved to the United States in July 2024, a relocation that has had a tremendous impact on his professional growth. This move to America immediately made it easier for him to create his own work and fully express his personal style, opening new doors for valuable connections and exciting creative opportunities.
While acknowledging the high level of competition, Kotiev sees it as the exact force that pushes him to improve, grow, and evolve. Since moving, he has been able to collaborate with brands not yet available in Europe and participate in many major tattoo conventions, all of which have helped expand his artistic horizons and professional network. One of the most important milestones of this period has been his collaboration with Grip Needles, which brought numerous connections and opportunities.
Overall, America has had a profoundly positive influence on his development as an artist, leading him to achieve a great deal in just one year, with no plans to stop, as he's ready to keep moving forward, creating more and doing even better.
