Before tattoo studios filled every high street, Grzegorz Małek was helping shape Wrocław’s tattoo scene from the ground up. We caught up with the founder of Guru Tattoo to talk about the early days, the evolution of the craft, and why experience still beats trends. come a long way.

You started tattooing in the early ’90s. What was it like back then?

There was no internet, no proper equipment, and almost no information. I learned everything through trial and error. Tattooing felt mysterious back then—clients came by recommendation, and tattoos were mostly associated with subcultures. We’ve come a long way.

What’s the biggest mistake young tattoo artists make?

They try to do work that’s too advanced too soon. Experience can’t be rushed.

After more than 30 years, what still keeps you going?

It’s still my passion. But more than that, it’s the people. Every tattoo starts with a conversation—and that’s something no machine will ever replace

You’re one of Wrocław’s tattoo pioneers. Did you realise you were making history?

Not at all. We were simply doing something nobody else was doing. Today, Guru Tattoo is the city’s oldest continuously running studio, and I’m proud we’ve stayed true to the craft.

What’s the biggest difference between tattooing then and now?

Today, everyone gets tattooed. In the ’90s it meant something different—it was rare, bold, and made a statement. Now it’s much more mainstream.”