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North Brunswick, NJ — By Melanio Escobar

Known on social media as @saneltattoos, Venezuelan-born artist Sanel Valles has quietly built a reputation as one of the most respected and skilled tattoo artists on the East Coast. Humble in nature but extraordinary in talent, Sanel has made his mark over the years through consistent, high-quality work and a deep dedication to the art of tattooing.

Born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, Sanel began his journey in the early 2000s, founding two prominent tattoo studios in the capital city. His career took him across the globe, attending international conventions, until he eventually co-founded what has become a landmark in the U.S. tattoo scene: Orpheus Tattoo Studio, located in North Brunswick, New Jersey. As of today, Sanel is the sole owner and driving force behind this creative sanctuary.

His breakthrough in the U.S. came in 2010, when he became the first Venezuelan artist to officially participate and represent his country at the iconic NYC Tattoo Convention at the Roseland Ballroom. His participation in this prestigious event — which he attended for four consecutive years until its closure — helped solidify his place in the American tattoo community.

Since then, Sanel has remained an influential figure in the industry. As a long-time member of the Hustle Butter Pro Team since 2016, he regularly appears at major conventions across the country. His artistry, particularly in cover-ups and restoration tattoos, has earned him a spot among New Jersey’s most in-demand tattoo artists for complex and transformative work.

In 2021, Sanel and former partner Marcel co-founded Orpheus Tattoo Studio, a two-story space designed not just as a workplace, but as a temple for tattoo art. The studio blends Greek mythology-inspired decor with cutting-edge technology and top-tier equipment, offering a welcoming and creative environment for both artists and clients. With room for up to nine resident artists, the studio is a hub for growth, mentorship, and excellence.

Among the rising talents nurtured at Orpheus are two former apprentices turned professional artists:

• Devin Mullen, originally from California but raised in New Jersey, specializes in black and gray realism. With just three years of experience, his use of texture, contrast, and light has already made him a sought-after artist.
• Kanon Shambora, a New Jersey native with American-Japanese heritage, brings incredible finesse to her micro-realism and fine line tattoos. 
• Despite having less than two years in the industry, her attention to detail is gaining wide recognition. Joining them at Orpheus are other talented artists such as:
• Byron Cuevas, known for clean and bold cartoon-style tattoos;
• Michael Cortes, an expert in neo-traditional, fine line, and geometric work;
• Jhan Giménez, whose clean techniques in color and black & gray continue to impress.

Orpheus Tattoo Studio also welcomes guest artists year-round, offering space to local, national, and international talent, and enriching the broader tattoo community.

For artists seeking a collaborative space or clients looking for a meaningful, masterfully executed piece of art, Orpheus Tattoo Studio stands as one of New Jersey’s premier destinations.

To learn more or book an appointment, visit: www.orpheustattoo.com

Media Contact: @orpheustattoo
Orpheus Tattoo Studio
640 Hermann Rd.,  North Brunswick New Jersey 
Orpheustattoostudio@gmail.com