Being a trailblazer in every sense of the word, Daniela Vasconcellos is different from your typical tattoo artist. From an early age, Daniela showed a passion for art from an early age, picking up a pencil at just two years old and tattooing by the time she was 13. By 18, she had opened her first tattoo studio in Brazil, a bold move that set the foundation for what would become an extraordinary career. Her journey has taken her across the globe, working in top tattoo studios in Brazil, Europe, the U.S., and now Australia, where she runs a private tattoo studio in Sydney. Known for her ability to create deeply personalized designs, Daniela ensures that every client she works with leaves her studio feeling special. More than just an artist, she uses her skills to empower people, including breast cancer survivors, by turning their scars into beautiful, meaningful tattoos. This dedication to helping others goes beyond art—it’s a way of giving back and breaking down taboos.
But Daniela’s story doesn’t stop at tattooing. She’s also a boxer, personal trainer, amateur boxing champion, and certified skipper, steering boats in some of Australia’s biggest water events. Recognized as a Distinguished Talent by the Australian government in 2019—the first tattoo artist to receive such an honor—Daniela’s journey is one of passion, resilience, and an unstoppable drive to break barriers. In this interview, we’ll dive deeper into the many layers of Daniela’s life, from her tattooing career to her boxing achievements and her adventures on the open seas. Let’s get to know the captain of the ink a little better.
1. You started tattooing at a young age. What first drew you to this art form, and how did it evolve into a career?
I was offered my first chance to become a tattooist when I met a tattoo artist while selling my artwork. He asked for my drawings exclusively, and in exchange, he taught me how to tattoo.
2. Opening your first tattoo shop in Brazil at 18 is impressive. How did that experience shape your entrepreneurial journey?
I was born with a strong personality, drive, and a brave spirit. At 18, I went through some hard situations, and I had only two options: be a victim or a winner. I chose to fight.
I think this perspective and courage have definitely helped me on my journey. Even now, I remind myself, “It was much harder before, and you got through it. Keep going—this shall pass. Tomorrow is another day.”
This mindset gives me the strength to keep moving forward.
3. You’re known for your work with breast cancer survivors. What motivates you to help transform scars into art?
Before I moved to Australia, I wanted to give something back to Brazil, the country where I was born. I felt I should use the skill I was blessed with—my art—to contribute.
One day, I thought about how women are affected by society in general, and I realized it would be meaningful to give something to breast cancer survivors. This experience affects their mental health, and they have already fought so hard to stay alive.
I started my project by offering free tattoos to survivors. I also created a calendar featuring tattooed women to raise awareness, which I donated to a large international institution to sell and generate funds.
After that, I felt so fulfilled that I decided to keep going. I’ve continued doing this work ever since.
4. Receiving a Distinguished Talent visa as a tattoo artist is a huge honor. How did it feel to be the first to achieve this recognition?
I feel honored and blessed. I always hoped to make my profession more visible and accepted, and I think receiving this visa was just the beginning.
Now the government sees tattoos as art, and this recognition can open doors for other talented individuals who want to contribute to this beautiful country.
I’m very happy to have been used by God as an instrument to contribute to society.
5. You’re also a certified skipper! How did you get into boating, and what do you enjoy most about captaining charters in Australia?
In 2020, I bought a sailboat for myself and started learning everything on my own. I didn’t know how to sail or how the engine and electronics worked. After a few months, I asked a man who cleaned my boat underwater if he could teach me. That marked the beginning of my learning journey.
After two months of working as a diver cleaning boats underwater, I quit and found another company where I worked as a deckhand. Eventually, the owner offered me a skipper position. I studied, got my license, and now work for several different companies.
What I enjoy most is the beautiful views and the sense of community among other skippers. We wave and smile at each other—it’s such a nice feeling. I also enjoy facing different challenges every day.
