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 and Manager of My Modern Met Store. She is a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art where she earned her BFA in Illustration and MFA in Illustration Practice. Sara is also an embroidery illustrator and writer living in Seattle, Washington. She runs Bear&Bean, a studio where she stitches pet portraits and other beloved creatures. She chronicles the creativity of others through her website Brown Paper Bag and newsletter, Orts. Her latest book is Threads of Treasure: How to Make, Mend, and Find Meaning Through Thread, published in 2014. Sara’s work has been recognized in Be Creative With Workbox, Embroidery Magazine, American Illustration, on Iron and Wine’s album Beast Epic, among others. When she’s not stitching or writing, Sara enjoys planning things that bring together the craft community. She is the co-founder of Camp Craftaway, a day camp for crafty adults with hands-on workshops in the Seattle area.
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