Rising Stars: Meet Luis Morales

Today we’d like to introduce you to Luis Morales.

Luis, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started tattooing in 2012. It started as a hobby then I started to earn extra money. At the beginning of my tattoo career, I did have some help from a friend of mine. I was a police officer in Puerto Rico and the money was not enough. In my second year of tattooing, my career as an artist started growing and I decided to quit my police office job to start as a full-time artist.

I self-taught everything, from designing to tattoo applications. In my third year of tattooing in PR, I felt that I needed a new environment. One that will challenge me to grow. In 2016, I moved to Clarksville, TN. It was definitely a cultural shocking experience. I didn’t speak English well, I was able to understand but I was not able to answer back to my customers.

(*fun story* I got a poor review on Google because I didn’t say a word during a tattoo session. The person didn’t know that I wasn’t able to speak in English and she got mad. When the owner replied to her, she when to the shop and apologized”).

I worked at a local shop in downtown Clarksville, TN. Little After that a new opportunity came with the chance to expand to the Nashville area. I got invited to a guest spot at the new Hart and Huntington Tattoo Company shop in downtown Nashville. Shortly after that, I joined The Four Bar Brand. I stayed about a year and a half at the Nashville location and later relocated to the Orlando location.

Where I still currently am as an independent contractor.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been pretty challenging. From learning the language to experiencing racism, discrimination, and oppression. Definitely not a pleasant experience.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’ve been a tattoo artist for around 10 years. I’m a versatile tattooer but I specialize in black and grey realism, full color, traditional tattoo, anime, cover-ups. I’m really proud of being able to put a permanent memory for someone.

So that every time they see it, is an instant reminder from; the place they visit, a memory of someone they love, an impulsive decision, or just a simple way of expression. One of the things that set me apart from others is that I’m a good listener. I like creating my tattoos based on my customer’s ideas.

I guide them through the whole process, that way I can have a better approach to what they are looking for. I like giving a good experience, even if I do a small tattoo.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
YouTube, Instagram, and Proko.

Contact Info:

• Email: Inkbyluis@gmail.com
• Website: www.luismoralestattooer.com
• Instagram: @luismoralestattooer

Image Credits
Alicia Williams