POLAND, Ohio (WKBN) — Despite being legally blind, Nicole Morrone brings vibrant and intricate designs to life — right on the skin of her clients.
Morrone, an acclaimed tattoo artist, was born with nystagmus, a condition that causes her eyes to shake involuntarily and makes it difficult for her to focus on distant objects.
“My vision is significantly impaired at 20/400, and I can only see clearly when objects are just inches away,” Morrone explained. “While I am legally permitted to tattoo, I am not allowed to drive. Tattooing has been a passion of mine since high school.”
After earning a degree in studio art and exploring various career paths, Morrone embarked on her tattooing journey two years ago.
She found an opportunity at Trademarked Society Tattoo in Poland, Ohio, where the owner offered her an apprenticeship. Today, Morrone’s schedule is booked months in advance.
“Initially, I felt the need to inform clients about my condition,” Morrone shared. “But now, it has become a defining aspect of my brand and identity, and I’ve fully embraced it.”
- Legally blind artist says she can’t drive, but she can tattoo
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 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 recently made a video sharing her story, and it’s gotten over 100,000 views.
“I didn’t know until I had a tattoo machine in my hand if I could do it,” Morrone said. “This is the best thing I’ve ever done for myself.”
