Meet Michelle De La Cruz | Tattoo Artist & Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michelle De La Cruz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, why did you pursue a creative career?
I decided to pursue a creative career because it’s the essence of who I am. I started drawing the second I could hold a crayon in my hand. There has not been anything more mentally freeing than to express myself in all manners of artistic ability. It brings me so much joy that when I get to create a piece for someone whether it be permanent in the form of a tattoo on someone or graphic design, I’m always left with that feeling that I left a positive impact on someone. And that’s why I continue to do it, for the smiles.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have too many artistic interests to keep count of. They range from graphic design, clothes making, jewelry making, painting, and tattooing. Though I’m most excited for my tattooing and jewelry making endeavors. It wasn’t the easiest to find a mentor to learn tattooing from, all while working a job to support me while doing so. I had doubts from time to time being able to succeed at my new career choice despite my love for it. The love for it is what has me pushing through the hardships and not give up. I’m much happier now than when I was at my last job doing something I didn’t like.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
It being Orlando, I would of course take them to the theme parks. Halloween Horror Nights is going on so I’ll make sure I get some screams out of them at the event. Can’t forget about our beaches that are only an hour away and the space center as well. It’s a must see for space lovers. Then I’ll take them to all the natural springs and national parks to see Florida’s nature. There’s many chances to see otters, turtles, birds, manatees and even gators while swimming in the waters. For dining there’s so many options. Orlando is a melting pot of different people and cultures. I would take them to hidden gems for Korean BBQ, sushi and other Japanese cuisine, Puerto Rican fusion food, and even the unique cafe concepts around downtown such as KŌRI and Fluffy Fluffy.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to shoutout my friends and loved ones for believing in me and being my pillars of support while I learned the art of tattooing. It wouldn’t have been possible with their combined support. They were there as my beginner canvas

Website: https://linktr.ee/cupcake_alpaca

Instagram: Tattoos- @monstabat Art- @cupcake_alpaca

Other: https://Behave.net/michelldelac1