We had the good fortune of connecting with Caryl Cunningham and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Caryl, what do you attribute your success to?
I think that success is a relative term. I am successful because I get to do what I love, creating art. and because I am able to support myself doing so. Whether others consider that successful is a good question. Being creative is an important part of my life and visual art is what I know.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The art of tattooing has evolved over time. The possibilities continue to expand and really amaze me. When I began tattooing there were few women in the industry and It was definitely a boys club, I was met with a lot of negativity. Women had to be tough and bring their ‘A’ game to be accepted and considered. In the beginning of my career being female is what set me apart and also that I was doing more realism, in floral images particularly. It was not an easy path but I am a person who is inspired by nay Sayers and always strive to prove them wrong. I am tenacious in that respect. I just keep doing what I love and it seems others love what I do as well so that is a great reward.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a good friend visiting the area that did not know Metro Detroit I would certainly take them to the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Henry Ford Museum, the Motown Museum, Belle Isle, Pewabic Pottery…. the list goes on! All of these places are rich with the history of Detroit. There are so many great restaurants to visit and more opening all the time, I would cater to my friends tastes. There are many areas that concentrate fabulous ethnic food gems! Metro Detroit certainly caters to Foodies. We could grab carry out and eat on the rive front or Belle Isle parks.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am most grateful to My boss Terry Welker. Without his guidance and support this journey would have been a much longer and difficult one. I am also grateful to my family and friends who have been my biggest champions. My clients are also a huge part of my success and why I do what I do. They have enriched my life in many ways I would not have considered.

Website: https://Caryart.com

Instagram: Caryl Cunningham

Facebook: Caryl Cunningham Tattoo

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMichigan is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.