The journey of Evaldas Gulbinas into the world of art is a story of passion, perseverance, and a seamless blend of various artistic forms. Born with an innate love for drawing, Evaldas’s artistic path began at a very young age. At just six years old, he picked up a pencil and started sketching castles, immersing himself in his artwork while his peers played outside. This early devotion to his craft set the stage for a life driven by creativity.
From Lithuania to London: Nurturing Artistic Talent
Growing up in Lithuania, Evaldas’s talent was nurtured through formal education. He attended the Kedainiai Art School and later, the prestigious M.K. Čiurlionis National School of Art in Vilnius, where he further honed his skills. These early years were foundational, as Evaldas developed a deep connection with both fine arts and his love for skateboarding. The rhythm of skateboarding and the surrounding street culture later became influential in shaping his distinctive artistic style.
In search of broader horizons, Evaldas moved to London, United Kingdom. It was in the vibrant urban landscape of London where his love for skateboarding and street art would intertwine with his artistic journey. London’s skateparks and its rich street art scene became a new source of inspiration. However, a significant challenge arose when Evaldas suffered a knee ligament injury, preventing him from continuing his skateboarding activities. Rather than allowing this setback to deter him, he channeled his energy into tattooing – a medium that, for him, beautifully merges his love for fine arts and the rebellious spirit of street art.
Tattooing: A Fusion of Fine Arts and Street Culture
Tattooing, for Evaldas, was more than just a new career path – it became a form of artistic expression. He embarked on a professional tattoo apprenticeship and began working in various tattoo parlors in London, where he further refined his craft. Drawing on his deep knowledge of fine art, Evaldas saw tattooing as an extension of his artistic abilities, a way to blend the intricate techniques of traditional art with the raw energy of street culture. It was during this period that he began experimenting with new tattoo styles, creating art that transcended the conventional boundaries of tattooing.
Despite his success in tattooing, Evaldas was determined to continue his academic journey in the arts. He enrolled in the Foundation in Art and Design at West Thames College in London, where he delved deeper into life drawing, mixed media, sculpture, installations, and multimedia. This academic exploration unlocked new possibilities for his creative expression, allowing him to combine his passion for tattooing with the broader world of fine arts.
Academic Pursuits and Art Exhibitions
Evaldas’s commitment to both tattooing and formal art education led him to the University of Westminster, where he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art, specializing in mixed media. The university environment provided him with the freedom to explore new ideas and experiment with different art forms. During his time there, he took part in numerous art exhibitions, showcasing his work and expanding his understanding of conceptual art.
But Evaldas’s journey didn’t stop at the bachelor’s level. His thirst for knowledge and artistic growth led him to pursue a Master’s degree in Fine Art at the renowned University of the Arts London. There, he continued to immerse himself in the world of art exhibitions and conceptual studies, while still maintaining his passion for tattooing. The connections he made during his master’s program with fellow artists and creatives remain an integral part of his network and friendships today.
A Life Devoted to Art and Tattooing
After completing his Master’s degree, Evaldas continued to work as a tattoo artist, while also focusing on his personal artistic projects. His ability to merge the worlds of tattooing, fine art, and street culture has led him to become a recognized name in the tattoo industry. Today, he is based in Vilnius, Lithuania, where he works in a relaxed, yet creatively fulfilling, environment. Evaldas’s love for travel and exploration continues to drive him to new places, where he draws inspiration from different cultures and environments, further fueling his passion for art.
Through it all, Evaldas remains deeply committed to the idea that art is about staying active and pushing boundaries. Whether in the tattoo studio, art gallery, or as a student of the arts, Evaldas sees creativity as a game to be played with passion, energy, and dedication. For him, the act of creating – whether it’s a tattoo, a painting, or a sculpture – is what keeps him alive and truly happy.
Evaldas Gulbinas’s story is a testament to the power of art as a means of self-expression and growth. His ability to seamlessly blend traditional art, street culture, and tattooing demonstrates the limitless possibilities of creativity. With a journey that continues to evolve, Evaldas’s art and tattoos remain a beautiful fusion of the worlds he loves.
