The first time at Roseland NYC (2010–13) as a Latino pioneer.
What scene or conversation made you value crossing borders while staying true to your roots?
A: Wow, you know, many conversations happened at that convention, but one very special one I remember was with Tony Romel from Tattoo Society magazine, who had traveled to Venezuela at the time. We talked about the experience in my country and its beautiful landscapes. I also spoke with Wes, the owner of Unimax, who told me I was the first Venezuelan he had ever seen participating in that classic convention, directly invited and representing my country. I remember he mentioned his intention to expand his company into South America and said Venezuela had always caught his attention, but with its government back then, he wasn’t convinced.
Former apprentices now artists at Orpheus.
What transformation did you experience when you saw your pupils become their own creative voice?
A: It fills me with so much pride. For example, seeing Devin create those works, his creativity and vision, and how his tattoos turn out—and how people seek him out—it’s like watching your children grow. The same happens with Kanon; every time I see his dedication in each piece. Or Lucas, who is shaping his own style based on traditional tattooing. It’s simple: they’re growing and evolving as artists and as people. And the most beautiful part is seeing them keep their essence and humility.
Healing inner stories with ink.
Have you ever tattooed something that closed a deep emotional wound without being visible?
A: Yes, it always happens. It’s very common during sessions. Sometimes you hear the stories, and sometimes you just feel them.
Clients who recognize themselves in your Venezuelan identity.
What encounter showed you that your cultural roots were key to connecting with a client?
A: These days, most of my clients already know before coming to me—it’s clearly written in my bio on my website. Many find it interesting; others don’t care where I’m from and come for my work. Maybe there are some who wouldn’t come to me for that reason, but in many cases, clients have Venezuelan roots or some kind of mix, and that creates an extra bond.
Decisions that transcend technique when serving as a judge.
What choice made you feel humbled and taught you something new about your own path?
A: Definitely serving as a judge at the Empire State Tattoo Convention. When you’re considered to have that level of knowledge, it makes you reflect on who you are. More than anything, it moves you to realize it’s a position where you must be humble to interpret each piece. You have to be really good at it to evaluate what you’re judging. The choice was simple: accept who I am and why I’m there, recognize my essence, and from there I can humbly evaluate others. When I evaluate others, I evaluate myself too. The good and the bad I see in their work, I must also find in mine. That’s where change comes from.
Intimate details at Orpheus that shape the experience.
What ritual, sound, or subtle fragrance permanently changes a client’s perception?
A: Everything. At Orpheus, we have a distinct “Orpheus scent.” If you spend a lot of time there, it even clings to your clothes. It smells like good vibes and tattoos. The reviews speak for themselves—Orpheus is our daily life, our second home, and people feel that. They always want to come back.
From Venezuela to your U.S. studio.
What difficult episode taught you the most about perseverance and burning the backdrop of fear?
A: Wow, being an immigrant. Leaving behind everything you had built in your homeland—family, culture—to bring your roots and plant them in another land. The hardest part was losing loved ones, whether or not I was able to see them before they left this earth. Still, I believe we all have a purpose and a time in this life, and that’s what keeps me moving forward without fear—so that leaving was worth it.
The studio as a space of life, not just work.
Was there a celebration, gathering, or community milestone at Orpheus that made you laugh or cry with pride?
A: The grand opening was very emotional—seeing special people attend. And every apprentice graduation has been very important to me. But honestly, I celebrate every day that Orpheus is there to bring happiness through ink.
Your story stands out in Hispanic media.
How do you see yourself as a cultural leader for emerging Latino artists in the U.S.?
A: I just hope they see me as an example for themselves, to grow and do things the right way—for themselves, for their community, and for the nation. There are many Latino artists of a very high level. All I can say is that we each have our time to achieve our dreams. America is a great nation, full of opportunities. It’s up to us to set the example that we came here to give our best to this country and to the world.
You have history and legacy, but the future calls.
What personal dream lives inside you that hasn’t yet been seen, but you feel it in every pulse of ink?
A: To see some of my kids working with me—or maybe all of them, hahahaha. But I’m not the kind of parent who pushes my children to be what I want. They’re still young and can choose to be whoever they want. But it would be cool.
Learn more about his work and upcoming projects at orpheustattoo.com, and follow Orpheus Tattoo on Instagram @saneltattoos.
