“Roberto, known in the tattoo world as Mr. Nobody, is a 33-year-old Italian artist whose journey has taken him from the streets of Ostia, Rome, to the bright lights of Las Vegas. In this interview, he shares his artistic evolution, which began with the Realistic style, and talks about his fascination with three-dimensional designs, as well as his passion for creating tattoos that move and inspire. From his favorite subject, the skull, to his inspirations and future goals, Roberto offers us a glimpse into the mind and artistry behind Mr. Nobody.”
Hi Roberto, welcome to Tattoo Life. Would you like to introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Roberto, I am 33 years old, and my artist’s name is Mr. Nobody.
Where are you from, and where do you live?
I am Italian, originally from Ostia, a neighborhood in Rome. I currently live in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States.
Why did you choose Las Vegas as your new home?
The decision to move to Las Vegas was both spontaneous and deliberate. I’ve been fascinated by this city since 2015, when I first connected with a tattoo shop for a guest spot. At the time, I ended up taking a different trip, and the opportunity didn’t materialize until November 2022.
Have you always been there?
No, before moving to the United States, I lived in a small village in Tuscany. My first professional and personal experience in Las Vegas—and in the United States—was in November 2022, during a 24-day guest spot. I worked, explored the city, and quickly fell in love with it. Within a week, I knew I wanted to live here for a while. We began the process for the O-1 visa in January, right after the guest spot, and in July 2023, I officially made the move.
Where do you work? Can you describe the tattoo shop?
I work at Seven Tattoo Studio, owned by Daniel Rocha and Emily Rocha. It’s conveniently located near the airport and the famous Las Vegas Strip. It’s one of the most well-equipped studios I’ve ever worked in, featuring two main rooms with five stations each, a piercing room, permanent makeup space, a dedicated room for artists, and a seminar room that regularly hosts guest artists. There’s also a spacious lounge area for clients and a kitchen where we often share meals. It’s a studio where you truly enjoy spending time.
How would you describe your style? Black, with a 3D impact and realistic subjects… plus?
My style has its roots in realism, but over the past two years, I’ve shifted toward a more personal approach that balances realistic effects with creative interpretation. What truly defines my work are the negative lines, or flows. These lines rotate, interact with the main subject, and create multiple layers, overlaps, and a 3D impact.
Have you always used this style?
Not at all. Like many tattoo artists, I started by tattooing a little bit of everything. My first favorite style was bio-organic, where I became fascinated by three-dimensionality and the way designs flowed on the body. Over time, I transitioned into realism, first in color, then in black and gray when I moved to Switzerland.
Eventually, I felt constrained by the strict rules of realism and sought to break free, leading me to develop the style I work in today.
Is the skull your favorite subject? Why?
The skull has definitely become one of my favorite subjects. Each time I create one, I feel like I can add something unique, which makes the process deeply satisfying. My imagination tends to gravitate towards dark, morbid themes, so the skull naturally aligns with my artistic vision.
Who inspires you in the tattoo scene?
I draw inspiration from many artists and styles. I admire the simplicity and cleanliness of Cristian Casas’ work, the volumes and textures of Kindamo and Posco Losco, and the compositions of Hernan Yepes. Long-time influences include Guy Aitchison, Dmitriy Samohin, Carlos Torres, and Victor Portugal.
Are you focusing on any particular research? New subjects or aspects of your technique?
After years of experimentation, I’ve found a formula I’m happy with. My current focus is refining my technique and adding complexity to my designs.
I often find my work too static, so I aim to emphasize movement in my tattoos.
Do you like traveling or doing guest spots? Who would you love to work with someday?
I prefer working permanently in a studio rather than doing guest spots. I see travel more as a vacation opportunity than a work-related activity. I’d love to collaborate again with Kindamo and Daniel Rocha, and it would be amazing to work with Victor Portugal and Carlos Torres one day.
