Visually Impaired Tattoo Artist Chronicles Inspirational Journey

Share and Follow

POLAND, Ohio (WKBN) — Despite being born legally blind, Nicole Morrone has mastered the art of creating intricate and vibrant tattoos on her clients’ skin.

Morrone’s visual impairment stems from several conditions, including nystagmus, which causes her eyes to involuntarily move and prevents her from clearly seeing distant objects.

“My clear vision is limited to just a few inches in front of me, with my sight rated at 20/400,” Morrone explained. “Although I am legally qualified to tattoo, I’m unable to drive. Ever since high school, the art of tattooing has always captivated me.”

Morrone holds a degree in studio art and explored various career paths before embracing tattooing as her profession two years ago.

The owner of Trademarked Society Tattoo in Poland took a chance on her, and gave her an apprenticeship. Now, she’s booked months out.

“At first, it was kind of like something that I felt like I had to warn people about,”Morrone said. Now, it’s just really become part of my brand and just part of who I am, and I’ve embraced it.”

She has won several awards for her expressive, colorful pieces.

“I just love playing with color. I love expressing myself through color,” Morrone said. “It’s something that I don’t have to look close at to see.”

She made a video sharing her story — it’s gotten over 100,000 views — but she wasn’t always so comfortable talking about her visual impairment. The support of her family, friends, coworkers and clients has given her the courage.

“I’ve never had a client, like, not want to get tattooed because of my condition or because of my disability,”Morrone said. “They’ve just all super embraced it. They loved my story, which made me want to share it.”

She doesn’t plan on putting down her tattoo machine any time soon.

“This is the best thing I’ve ever done for myself,” Morrone said.