Karl Velazquez Proenza Orlando, FL

KARL VELAZQUEZ PROENZA

I’m from Puerto Rico and came to Florida 6 years ago. I started working at Walt Disney World for about 5 years and then at Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights. When the pandemic struck, I quit both jobs, and that’s when I decided to pick up my art skills again and practice tattooing. Shortly after, I stumbled upon a new studio opening, and after meeting with the owner and interviewing, I was offered an apprenticeship. As a gay Hispanic artist in the industry, I was very fortunate for the opportunity. A couple of months later, I became a professional tattoo artist and started tattooing as my full-time job ⸺ Who/where do you get your inspiration from? I started my artistic journey watching my older sister draw and was always motivated by my parents to continue growing that skill ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Come in with an open mind, trust your artist and do your research on what artist you want to work with for your first tattoo ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family was excited I had finally found a career doing something I love and supported me all the way ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The chance and opportunity to continue to grow and learn throughout my career experience ⸺ Who are your favorite artists? Jean-Michel Basquiat, Van Goh, Chris Wright, Gabriel Picolo, Mark Ryden, and Victor Castillo are some of my favorites ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Not so much based on the area but the concept. I refuse to do anything that symbolizes any form of hate, discrimination, or anything against any person’s race, gender, religious beliefs, sexuality, physical appearance, etc. ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I would like to think that the future of tattooing will be more open to all sorts of people and artists and, in doing so, get rid of the “intimidating” reputation it used to and continues to have in some cases. ✕