Yohandri Sosa has spent the last eight years mastering the fine line between artistic vision and personal expression. Originally from Cuba and now thriving in Miami’s fast-paced tattoo scene, he’s recognized for his vivid, detail-driven realism and nostalgic anime pieces. Whether at global conventions or in the studio, Yohandri continues to evolve, connect, and leave a lasting mark both literally and artistically.
Hello Yohandri, for readers who aren’t familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
I’m a Cuban tattoo artist based in Miami, with over 8 years of experience in the tattoo world. I’ve always been passionate about art, and I found in tattooing a unique way of expressing myself that connects with people on a deeper level. I’ve had the opportunity to participate in conventions in various countries and I’m constantly working to grow and refine my personal style.
Where does your fascination with tattoos come from?
My fascination started as a need to express myself beyond paper or canvas. The idea that a piece of art could stay with someone forever truly impacted me. For me, tattoos are a living, intimate, and eternal form of art that can express emotions and stories without words.
When did you decide to become a professional tattoo artist?
I started tattooing over eight years ago, but it was six years ago that I fully committed to it professionally. Since then, I haven’t stopped learning, exploring, and working toward developing an artistic identity that represents me in the tattoo world.
How do you balance creativity with the client’s personal vision?
It’s essential for me to listen to the client and understand what they want to express. From there, I add my artistic and technical vision to elevate that idea to the highest level. I always aim to find that balance where my style is present without losing the essence of the client’s story.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Cuba these days?
In Cuba, the tattoo scene has grown a lot despite limitations. There’s amazing talent and passion. In Miami, where I live now, the level is high and competitive, which motivates me to keep evolving. It’s a place where tattooing is respected as an art form and originality is highly valued.
How would you define your current tattoo style, and how did you end up focusing on it?
My current focus is mainly realism and anime! I was drawn to the precision, detail, and emotional depth these styles offer. Anime also connects with my nostalgic and emotional side. I’m still exploring, aiming to blend elements and create a unique, recognizable signature style.
Walk us through your process when starting a new tattoo for a client.
First, I talk with the client to understand their idea, story, or emotion behind the tattoo. Then I do research, create references, sketches, and the composition. Once the design is approved, I focus entirely on execution—paying close attention to every detail to ensure the final result is meaningful and flawless.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Staying relevant and original in such a visually saturated world is a huge challenge. With so many talented artists out there, standing out takes consistency, authenticity, and constant evolution. Clients’ expectations are also higher, demanding both technical perfection and artistic depth.
What tattoo project pushed your skills the most?
One of the most challenging pieces was a realistic portrait mixed with anime elements, done in a small area and on a difficult part of the body. I had to achieve precise details without losing expression, which required full focus, technical control, and creative flexibility.
What has your experience with tattoo conventions been like so far?
I’ve participated in conventions in Cuba, Spain, Argentina, and the U.S. Each one has been unique, helping me grow, connect with other artists, and showcase my work to a broader audience. These events are full of artistic energy and inspiration.
Have you ever entered any tattoo competitions?
Yes, I’ve entered competitions at several conventions. More than just winning, I see them as opportunities to challenge myself, step out of my comfort zone, and learn from other high-level artists.
What’s your main reason for attending a tattoo convention?
I attend conventions to share my work, learn from others, and stay updated with trends and techniques. But most importantly, I go to connect with other artists and the public. It’s a powerful exchange of energy, knowledge, and culture.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for artists and attendees?
I think conventions could offer more space for workshops, talks, and technical exchanges, especially for emerging artists. Some events could also improve organization to optimize working conditions. For attendees, more interactive experiences would help them better connect with the artistic process.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far, and why?
One of my favorites has been the Miami convention. Besides being local for me, I felt a strong energy from the crowd and saw incredibly high artistic quality. It’s a well, organized event where professionalism and camaraderie go hand in hand.
What advice would you give to first-time artists attending or working at a convention?
Go with an open mind and a willingness to learn and share. Don’t compare yourself, use the experience as motivation to grow. And be well-prepared: from your design to your equipment, every detail matters when you’re showcasing your art live.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Be patient and passionate. This path takes discipline, hours of practice, and the humility to keep learning. It’s not just about tattooing well, it’s about connecting with people and translating their stories into lasting art. Never settle, there’s always something to improve.
Who are the people you admire most in the tattoo community?
I admire many artists who have developed their own distinctive style. I’m inspired by those who have contributed something original to the tattoo culture, who teach, share, and leave a lasting impact beyond the skin. I also deeply respect those who maintain their passion after many years in the craft.
What’s your biggest achievement as a tattoo artist?
Being able to live from the art I love is already a big achievement. But what fulfills me most is seeing my clients proud and emotionally connected to the tattoos I create for them. I’m also grateful for the opportunity to represent my roots and my work internationally through conventions.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I constantly study, observe other artists, practice new techniques, and push myself outside my comfort zone. I also listen closely to my clients, who continuously challenge me with different ideas. The key is never feeling like you’ve “made it”—there’s always room to evolve.
What’s the most meaningful feedback you’ve received from a client?
A client once told me that their tattoo helped restore their self-confidence after a difficult time. That kind of feedback reminds me that I’m not just creating art—I’m contributing something emotional and lasting to someone’s life. That’s priceless.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
My main goal is to develop a style so unique that people can recognize it at first glance. I want to build a strong personal brand and, in the future, open a studio that can host guest artists and serve as a creative and professional space.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what can you tell us about them?
I don’t currently have any sponsors, but I’m open to working with brands that align with my artistic vision and commitment to quality. I’d love to collaborate with companies that value innovation and support growth in the tattoo industry.
Is there anything else you’d like to say to our readers?
Just thank you for taking the time to learn more about my work and my vision of tattooing. This is an art form that deserves respect and recognition, and I’m honored to share part of my journey with you. I hope what I create inspires, moves, or simply stays with those who wear it.
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