Check Out Shamalee Delacruz’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shamalee Delacruz.

Hi Shamalee, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I never thought I’d be a tattoo artist. It was really shunned in my family. They saw tattoos as something only for “tigeres”. Thinking I couldn’t make a career in art, I went to college for Advertising/Public Relations. I ended up getting fired from my graphic design job and had a midlife crisis. I realized most of my decisions in life were based on family acceptance. I had been asked to draw tattoos while growing up and started to look into the profession. My best friend, Stephanie was the only person I knew who had a big tattoo. She introduced me to her tattoo artist, Will Gonzalez at Ink 112 in Harlem. It was my first opportunity to learn in a shop.

I got a job at Scarr’s Pizza to supplement my income and be able to apply for health insurance. There is where I met a tattoo shop owner coming in for a slice!

This year I moved from Harlem to Los Angeles. I followed tattoo artists from all over the world and always gravitated toward the Chicano style of tattooing. I always learned I wanted to learn more in person and when I turned 30, I knew it was time. I’m so happy to have found El Clasico, a shop in Echo Park owned by Sal Preciado. The shop has made me feel welcomed and has been teaching me so much. It’s amazing to see my coworkers whipping up scripts in seconds!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road but it’s been worth it. The main struggle along the way has been believing in myself. For so long, I didn’t feel worthy of tattooing. If it wasn’t for people not letting me give up, I don’t know if I’d be here 6 years later. I’m so thankful I listened.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in single-needle tattoos. I’m mostly known for custom lettering, coverups, and tattoo handwriting from loved ones. I think what sets me apart is where I place the tattoos. My favorite part is tailoring the design to how it will complement a specific area on the body.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I love all the history. I love the slow pace and slow jams. I love allll the nature. Also, the best tacos I’ve ever eaten in my life. I don’t like how separate everything feels. These 20 minutes are different!

Pricing:

• Shop minimum is $100

Contact Info:

• Website: tatubuny.com
• Instagram: @tatubuny

Image Credits
Lina Aquino