Marked for Expression: Olena Fomenko’s Alternative Canvas
From modeling to tattooing, Lilouciano turns her passion for ink and fashion into an art form.
Olena Fomenko, known as Lilouciano, isn’t just part of the alternative scene—she’s helping shape it. As a sought-after model for brands like KillStar and Stay Cold Apparel and an apprentice tattoo artist, her world is a fusion of fashion, ink, and unapologetic self-expression. In this interview, she reveals what drives her creativity, the meaning behind her art, and how alternative fashion and tattoos have become inseparable parts of her identity.
Growing up in Ukraine, how have your cultural roots influenced your journey into alternative modeling and tattoo artistry?
I left Ukraine in age of 18, I always felt this need to discover whole world. I don’t really feel like I had any influence on me of this country. I started my model career and tattoo journey in Europe. My first tattoo was done in Brussels, my first alternative model agency was in France.
Can you share the story behind your transition from alternative modeling to becoming an apprentice tattoo artist?
Everything is related to each other. I started getting tattooed - become tattoo model, and during tattoo sessions was learning technical skills of tattooing. It was so united to me.
You've worked with brands like KillStar and Stay Cold Apparel. How do these collaborations align with your personal aesthetic and values?
I love these brands and I'm so happy collaborating with them cause it’s all about my personality and clothing style. I'm really enjoying every time creating new looks and making photos and videos for them wearing my favorite outfits. I'm feeling so grateful and creative at that moment.
What themes or symbols do you find most inspiring when creating tattoo designs?
Well, I love painting in black (I'm doing black work). I love deep black and it’s all about darkness and my inner peace.
With a significant following on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, how do you navigate the balance between personal expression and audience expectations?
I just do what I love and then express myself on the social media without expecting anything. Those who like - I'm very happy, those who don’t - they just can swipe my page and forget, I don’t mind.
How does alternative fashion serve as a medium for your self-expression and identity?
I was always alternative. Since kid I was always wearing weird clothes and was creating my own accessories (like chokers, belts, leather wristbands, etc). And maybe it’s because my parents are Aquarius. Those who know - they know about what I'm talking.
Have you noticed any shifts in how alternative fashion and tattoos are perceived in Ukrainian society over the years?
I don’t know what happening in Ukraine right now. I'm more about France. France is my home and my nationality is French.
As you continue to evolve in your career, what are your aspirations within the alternative fashion and tattoo industries?
My next direction is USA. I want to show myself in tattoo and modeling industry over there.
How do you believe alternative art forms like tattooing empower individuals in their personal journeys?
You have to be strong and confident to resist people around and system, being different - it’s all about surviving.
What advice would you offer to those looking to break into alternative modeling or tattoo artistry?
Be yourself! Express yourself and CREATE YOUR OWN (don’t copy others).
Keep up with Olena on Instagram: @liloucianoofficial
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