
A Story of Loyalty and Art:
Stefanía’s Return After 11 Years
Caracas, Venezuela
Some tattoos are more than just ink on skin — they’re memories that last and connections that transcend time. One of those stories is that of Stefanía, a very special client whom I had the honor of tattooing for the first time over 11 years ago in Caracas, Venezuela. Back then, I tattooed a cat’s gaze on her back — a piece that, over time, became part of her identity.
Although she got a few small tattoos in other places over the years, Stefanía always held on to the dream of returning to me for a larger, more meaningful project. Time passed, my career took me to new cities and countries, and she continued on her path as well. But recently, fate brought us back together — this time in Austin, Texas, where I had the privilege of reconnecting with her… and with a story that had been waiting to be continued.
Caracas, Venezuela
Caracas, Venezuela
Although she got a few small tattoos in other places over the years, Stefanía always held on to the dream of returning to me for a larger, more meaningful project. Time passed, my career took me to new cities and countries, and she continued on her path as well. But recently, fate brought us back together — this time in Austin, Texas, where I had the privilege of reconnecting with her… and with a story that had been waiting to be continued.
Stefanía traveled all the way from Maine for this reunion, and with her permission, I’m sharing her own words about the experience:
“Reconnecting with José after more than a decade was a deeply special experience. Our paths first crossed in Venezuela 11 years ago, and now they’ve met again in Texas to continue writing stories on my skin. For me, skin has always been a canvas where memories, emotions, and symbols are permanently imprinted. And I couldn’t trust that canvas to better hands.
From that very first tattoo, I knew José was not only a talented artist but someone who truly listens, interprets, and transforms what you carry inside into meaningful art. I deeply admire the passion and professionalism he brings to his work, because every stroke comes with dedication, sensitivity, and the best energy. With José, you don’t just get a beautiful tattoo — you get an experience that brings trust, respect, and a real connection.
This tiger now on my skin is more than a design: it’s proof that some bonds surpass time and distance. When you find the right person to tell your story through tattooing, it doesn’t matter how long you have to wait. Thank you, José, for treating my skin like a true canvas and for putting your art and heart into every detail. I now carry not only a tattoo but also a piece of our shared story.”
Austin, Texas
AUSTIN, TEXAS
As an artist, it’s an incredible privilege to have clients like Stefanía — people who not only value my work but trust it enough to wait over a decade and travel across the country to bring a dream to life. This time, we created a realistic contemporary tiger tattoo, a piece full of strength, detail, and symbolism. But beyond the design, what truly emerged was a story of deep loyalty, mutual admiration, and connection.
Stories like this remind me why I do what I do. Because when a tattoo is born from a genuine bond, it becomes something eternal — not just on the skin, but in the heart.


