By Brenda Morrow
Some artists tattoo. Others transform.
Ivan Baiun, the visionary behind Bayun Tattoos, has spent the last decade refining a visual language that speaks in symbols, shadows, and skin. Now, for the first time, American audiences will experience it firsthand.
Launching this summer, Baiun begins a dual residency at two of California’s most iconic tattoo studios: Sashatattooing Essential in San Francisco and Sashatattooing Gallery in Los Angeles. With this move, the Ukrainian-Israeli artist sets down roots on both ends of the state – bringing with him a cult following and a style unlike anything currently in the U.S. market.
“Excited to announce I’ll be joining the Sashatattooing family in SF and LA. Looking forward to new faces, new stories, and creating something powerful together.”
– Ivan Baiun / @bayun.tattoos
A Style That Cuts Deep
Bayun’s work doesn’t follow trends. It creates mythology.
His tattoos are unmistakable: surreal beasts, spectral warriors, flowing abstract forms, and often, a haunting red-and-black palette that seems carved from ritual and instinct. His work draws inspiration from Japanese tattoo tradition, but warps it into something contemporary and emotionally volatile – bold, timeless, and raw.
Every piece is handcrafted, not just as body art but as narrative ink. They are talismans. Mirrors. Wounds that heal beautifully.
From Tel Aviv to the World
Before California, there was Tel Aviv. Then Berlin. Then Paris. Then London.
Over the last seven years, Baiun has earned international recognition for his bold reinterpretations of tattoo artistry. His portfolio includes time at elite studios like:
- Exodus Tattoo Studio and Vanta Tattoo Gallery (Tel Aviv)
- Inkustudioparis (Paris)
- Baron Noir Tattoo (Bordeaux)
- Auraninetyfour (London)
- Der Grimm Tattoo (Berlin)
He has also been a guest artist and featured talent at global tattoo conventions such as Wild Claw (Belgium) and the Israel Tattoo Convention, where his work turned heads for its intensity and refinement.
Touching Down in the U.S.
Baiun’s West Coast residencies are only the beginning of his American expansion. In 2025 and 2026, he’ll appear at a curated list of top tattoo conventions across the country:
- Villain Arts Festivals in Denver, Chicago, Minneapolis, New Orleans
- New York Tattoo Convention
- Orlando Tattoo Show
- Art Legends Tattoo Expo (Texas)
- Cincinnati Tattoo Convention – where he’ll appear as a guest judge
These appearances cement his arrival not just as a tattooist, but as a voice helping to reshape the future of the craft in North America.
Why Sashatattooing?
Sashatattooing is not just a studio. It’s a movement.
Founded by Sasha Masiuk, the global tattoo brand has long stood at the intersection of precision, artistry, and design. With locations spanning continents and a reputation for excellence, it has become a haven for world-class talent.
Baiun joining Sashatattooing is not a collaboration – it’s a natural evolution. Both share a commitment to meticulous execution and bold innovation.
Now Booking – A Rare Window of Access
For the first time, U.S. clients can reserve sessions with Bayun without traveling overseas. Spots are extremely limited and expected to sell out quickly.
To book:
- Instagram: @bayun.tattoos
- Email: bayun.tattoos@gmail.com
Each session includes a detailed creative consultation. Every design is unique, intuitive, and crafted to fit the story and energy of the individual.
Final Note: California Has a New Legend
Ivan Baiun doesn’t just tattoo – he invokes.
His pieces feel ancient and futuristic, personal and mythic, violent and beautiful. With this new residency, the U.S. gains more than an artist; it gains a storyteller whose medium is blood and ink.
This summer, California meets Bayun. And nothing will look the same again.
