Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Gatelaro
Hi Samantha, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 2013, I left Ohio and moved to Tampa, Florida, to pursue a degree in fine arts. After graduating, I relocated to Orlando in search of opportunities in the art industry. For a year, I worked as a face painter for a third-party company contracted by Disney and Universal. Then, everything changed when I was offered a tattoo apprenticeship.
I was fortunate to train under two incredibly talented Brazilian tattoo artists, Val and Tomi. During my apprenticeship, I also expanded my portfolio through local and international live painting events, which allowed me to grow an online presence, sell my art, and build connections. These relationships opened doors for me to travel as a guest artist across the country, working as both a painter and tattoo artist.
After completing my tattoo apprenticeship, I began attending tattoo conventions and have been honored to win nine awards so far. However, the demands of frequent travel made regular tattoo scheduling difficult, so I transitioned to a private studio in 2021, sharing the space with my best friend, whom I also had the privilege of apprenticing.
Before long, we outgrew that studio, and in November 2024, we took the leap and opened The Mermaid’s Muse, our very own fine arts gallery and tattoo studio. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m excited to see what the future holds in this next chapter.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Life is full of challenges that shape who we are. Moving across the country at 18 and learning to navigate life on my own was tough, but it taught me independence and problem-solving skills that have been invaluable in shaping me into the business owner I am today.
Running a business comes with its own set of hurdles—managing social media, providing excellent customer service, keeping up with product demand, maintaining licenses, and handling daily operations. But every challenge has been a lesson, and I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything. They’ve been key to my growth and success.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in creating vibrant, colorful tattoos that reflect themes of magic, mythology, symbolism, and deep emotion. My favorite style is a unique blend of stylized realism with a mix of color-infused black and gray. What truly sets me apart is my bold emphasis on the use of color, bringing each piece to life with a vivid, emotional impact that feels almost otherworldly. This approach, combined with the meaningful stories behind each design, is something I’m especially proud of.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Creating art freely, without restrictions or deadlines, and purely for myself brings me true happiness.
Pricing:
- Tattoos can range from $100-1000 depending on design, size, and placement
- Original artwork also ranges depending on size but most are under $1000
- My most popular triangular shaped prints are $70
- My top selling 5×7 prints are $15
- One of a kind block print clothing ranges from $20-50
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Artofcalypso.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/calypso_the_artist
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/calypsofinearts
- Other: https://linktr.ee/calypsoarts
