Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Samuel Delgado. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Samuel, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

Yes, I currently make a full-time living from my creative work, but it wasn’t easy or quick.

I started with a clear passion for art and for telling stories through tattoos. In the beginning, I took on all kinds of work, worked long hours, and earned just enough to keep going. But little by little, I developed my own style, and that’s when people started coming to me for what I could offer—not just for a tattoo.

Social media also played a big role in helping me get my work out there and connect with more people. If I could go back, I’d probably focus earlier on learning about marketing and how to promote my work—not just perfecting the art side.

Today, I’m grateful to say I live off what I love, and every tattoo I create is part of that journey.

Samuel, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Samuel Delgado, and I’m a tattoo artist and visual storyteller based in Miami. My journey into the tattoo world began with a deep love for drawing and expressing emotion through imagery. What started as simple sketches eventually became a full creative path that allowed me to connect with people on a much deeper level — using tattoos as a way to mark stories, memories, and identity on the skin.

I specialize in styles like American Traditional, neo-Japanese, and Black & Grey realism, but more than technique, what sets my work apart is the emotion and purpose behind each piece. I often collaborate with clients to design tattoos that go beyond the surface — pieces that represent transformation, tribute, strength, or healing. Whether it’s a memorial tattoo, a powerful cover-up, or a symbolic design, I aim to create something personal and lasting.

I’m most proud of how far I’ve come — building a career from scratch, staying true to my style, and now working full-time as a resident artist at Inked Miami. Being part of that team has allowed me to grow even more, meet incredible clients, and stay inspired every day.

For anyone discovering my work for the first time, I want them to know that I care deeply about what I do. For me, tattooing isn’t just about the ink — it’s about listening, interpreting, and creating something meaningful that becomes a part of the person forever.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

In my view, one of the best ways society can support artists and creatives is by truly valuing their work — not just as decoration or entertainment, but as something that adds real emotional, cultural, and even personal value to people’s lives.

Supporting the creative ecosystem means investing in art education from an early age, creating spaces where artists can showcase their work, and encouraging collaboration rather than competition. For tattoo artists in particular, it also means breaking down outdated stigmas and recognizing that what we do is a legitimate and deeply personal form of art.

Access to resources, mentorship, and platforms to share our stories can make a huge difference. But above all, what helps creatives thrive is when people choose to support local artists, respect their time and craft, and understand that behind every design there’s a person putting heart, vision, and experience into it.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding part of being an artist is the connection I create with people.

There’s something powerful about turning someone’s story, memory, or emotion into a permanent piece of art on their skin. It’s not just about the tattoo — it’s about the trust they place in me, the conversation we share, and the moment they see their idea come to life.

Being able to express myself through my work and at the same time help others express something meaningful — that’s what makes it all worth it. Every piece is a collaboration, and every session is a reminder of how personal and impactful art can be.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://samueldelgadoart.net/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samueldelgadoart?igsh=cmxheHFjZHIwdmE1&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ASJgyVXfW/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Image Credits

Andreina Rodrígues
@imninarts