Linear Designs of Minimalist Tattoos Gracefully Flow Across Bodies

Using intricate, crisscrossing lines and a minimalist aesthetic, Chaim Machlev creates beautifully-unconventional body art. The Berlin-based tattoo artist etches flowing abstract designs on skin that often spans the length of an arm, leg, or back. Sometimes, the compositions will continue from one body part to another.

Regardless of their placement, Machlev's tattoos feature elegant, sweeping marks that look like twisted structures. He'll sometimes add geometric shapes that mimic the appearance of lotus flowers or other organic forms. Coupled with the complex lines, they make for mesmerizing additions to the skin.

The preciseness of Machlev's work is really impressive, and even more so when you learn that he's only been tattooing since 2012. His previous job was as a project manager for an IT company. But, after receiving his first tattoo, he couldn't stop thinking about them – he'd even see patterns in his dreams. Machlev later decided to dedicate his life to this pursuit, and it seems that following his passion has paid off.

Chaim Machlev website and Facebook page
via [LLGD]

Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes is a Staff Editor at My Modern Met, Manager of My Modern Met Store, and co-host of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. As an illustrator and writer living in Seattle, she chronicles illustration, embroidery, and beyond through her blog Brown Paper Bag and Instagram @brwnpaperbag. She wrote a book about embroidery artist Sarah K. Benning titled 'Embroidered Life' that was published by Chronicle Books in 2019. Sara is a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art. She earned her BFA in Illustration in 2008 and MFA in Illustration Practice in 2013.
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