Today we’d like to introduce you to Angel Octopus.
Hi Angel, 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?
Like many artists, I was “that kid” who was always drawing.
My journey began in art school, where I earned my first degree in Fine Arts. After graduating, I attended a small tattoo convention and it was love at first sight. Tattooing instantly captivated me, but at the time, I couldn’t fully dive into it. Growing up in a demanding society, I felt the pressure to “do more” in order to be accepted and build a stable career.
I went on to earn a second degree in Graphic Design, followed by a third in 3D Modeling and Animation for film and video games. That opened the door to working with major companies and building a reputation as a versatile designer and animator. I even had the opportunity to teach at the art school and college level for years, helping the next generation of designers and artists grow their skills.
Even then, working full time and having a good reputation, tattooing kept calling me. I continued tattooing on the side for years, until one day, I decided to follow that passion full time. I moved to the beautiful Margarita Island, where I eventually opened my first tattoo studio. Business was going well, but as the political and economic situation in the country became unstable, my wife and I made a difficult but necessary decision: to move to the United States.
After a long immigration process and loosing everything we had, my family and I arrived in the U.S. I began tattooing in a small, beautiful studio in Panama City, Florida. Two years later, moved to Tennessee and worked with a large, well known tattoo company in downtown Nashville. Three years after that, I settled in Knoxville, where I finally opened my own studio.
Today, I’m proud to run a space where two more artists and a PMU specialist do what they love most. I’m deeply committed to creating a clean, peaceful, and welcoming environment for both artists and clients. I believe in helping others grow, and I continue to support young artists in South America by sending art supplies and hosting mentoring sessions to help them achieve their goals.
Whether through tattooing, teaching, or design, I’ve always seen art as a way to connect, empower, and inspire. And I’m just getting started.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It was hard in the beginning, not knowing what to do or where to start. But once I realized that my dream was actually possible, everything became clearer. My vision had always been there, but like many others, I struggled with confidence.
I’ve always had a curious, hungry mind. I love learning and constantly seeking out new things to explore. That’s what keeps it exciting, pushing the limits a little further each time, and growing with every challenge on the way to achieving my goals.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a tattoo artist specializing in realism, whether it’s black and grey, color, or a mix of styles. What sets me apart is my artistic foundation and diverse professional background. I’m not just a tattooer. ’m a multidisciplinary artist with over 23 exhibitions in art galleries, including national awards and a bunch of things like being featured in magazines or Newspapers, showcasing both my paintings and sculptures.
Beyond tattooing, I’ve worked as a graphic designer, digital sculptor, 3D modeler, video editor, and teacher. This range of experience gives me a unique perspective and a broad creative toolkit that I bring into every piece I create.
Above all, I’m passionate about learning. I believe every person has something valuable to offer, and I’m always open to growing through connection, collaboration, and creative exploration.
How do you think about happiness?
I genuinely love seeing people follow their dreams and reach their goals. I’m living mine right now and I’m grateful every day. I went from losing everything to building something I’m truly proud of, surrounded by what I consider the best people anyone could ask for. Their support has been everything, and it’s what keeps me moving forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://angeloctopus.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/angeloctopus.studio
- Facebook: http://facebook.com/angeloctopus.studio
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@angeloctopus.studio
