The Inspiring Journey of Michael Murolo: From tattoo studio manager to esteemed talent scout

Michael Murolo, born on May 30, 1984, in the sunny city of Bari in southern Italy, is an extraordinary figure – a tattoo connoisseur, mentor, and talent scout. From an early age, he discovered his artistic inclination, being fascinated by drawing and painting. This interest evolved into a passion, and the passion became a profession that not only brings him satisfaction but also respect in the world of tattoos.

From Early Years to Heroism

However, this is just the beginning. At the age of 16 in the year 2000, Michael entered the world of tattooing as an apprentice and office assistant in a tattoo salon, where he learned the secrets of this unique art.

- It was a starting point that helped me understand that tattooing is not just a drawing on the skin; it's a form of art that holds deep meaning for people - confesses Murolo.

His skills and professionalism led him to the position of manager in the same salon, a position he held for the next 9 years. But Michael didn't stop at achieving that role.

- For me, it was another step towards understanding the entire tattoo creation process, both as an artist and as a manager - he explains.

Dreams Driving Success

Dreams drive people to achieve greater things. For Murolo, his dream was to be a part of the most significant events in the tattoo world. One day in 2017, at a small tattoo convention in southern Italy in the Apulia region, he met the organizer of the Urban Land Tattoo Expo in Rome, which is now one of the most important conventions in Italy. This meeting transformed the dream into reality.

- It was a breakthrough moment in my career, which opened doors for me to collaborate with artists from around the world, the same artists I had seen in magazines like Tattoo Energy and Tattoo Life - emphasizes Murolo.

The Influence of Alex Van Dutch and Andy Bonzai

Equally crucial in Michael Murolo's career is Alex Van Dutch from World Tattoo Events, one of the most important tattoo platforms globally. Collaborating with Alex added even more significance to his endeavors.

- It's a combination of passion and professionalism that helps create the most important tattoo events - Murolo notes.

Alex Van Dutch became a mentor and friend to Michael, supporting him in discovering new talents and creating high-quality events.

- While working with the Urban Land Tattoo Convention a few years ago, I got to know Michael Murolo. In spite of the fact that he is not a tattoo artist (like myself), he has always given me the feeling that he is genuinely passionate about the field of tattooing. Since that time, we’ve always stayed in touch regularly, and despite some difficult challenges along the way, Michael has shown that devotion, enthusiasm, and hard work can get you very far in the tattoo industry. Any credible tattoo exhibition looking to compile an excellent lineup of international tattoo artists should give Michael the highest attention because he is unquestionably a serious player - says Alex Van Dutch.

The story of Michael Murolo cannot be told without considering the influence of Andy Bonzai, the organizer of Rotterdam Tattoo Convention, International Hasselt Tattoo Convention, and Den Bosch Tattoo Convention.

- This partnership opened new doors for me and broadened my horizons, allowing me not only to perform my role as a talent scout but also to share my knowledge and experience as a juror - he explains.

It was Andy Bonzai who gave Michael the opportunity to fulfill another dream and goal. Bonzai invited him to collaborate on artistic selection and as a juror at his event in Hasselt, Belgium.

- I have known Michael Murolo for a few years now. He is actively involved as a talent selector. This entails collaborating with various convention organizations to choose artists who wish to participate in specific conventions. Essentially, he functions as a booking agent. I've had the opportunity to work with him in the past, and it's evident that he approaches his role with a lot of passion. As a jury member, Michael seems to be omnipresent, as he genuinely enjoys this role. He approaches his responsibilities on the jury with the same level of enthusiasm. In general, Michael is a kind and warm-hearted person who also happens to have a knack for finding excellent mozzarella. A quirky detail is that this little Italian fellow has a genuine fondness for pineapple pizza...(hahaha) - says Andy Bonzai.

The Art of Selection: The Key to Success

Being an artistic selector is not just an honor but also a tremendous responsibility. Michael is well aware of this:

- For me, every tattoo style is important in the artistic selection for an event. I must have a perfect understanding of styles and methods to choose the best of the best - he explains.

When selecting artists to participate in events, he focuses not only on their popularity but primarily on quality and the unique style they can present. Murolo emphasizes that selection is a process that demands significant commitment.

- When interacting with artists, I try to build relationships based on trust and professionalism. I want every artist to feel appreciated and supported throughout the entire process - he clarifies.

His experience and knowledge have allowed him to gain the trust of artists worldwide, and he has become a significant reference point for those aiming to participate in events of the highest artistic level. Murolo's presence on the jury ensures impartiality in deliberations and the selection of the best works.

Currently, Michael Murolo collaborates on artistic selection for Caserta Tattoo Convention in Italy and the International Tattoo Exhibition in Metz, France. His involvement in these prestigious events confirms the high value he attaches to artistic quality and diversity. He has also been invited as a juror to several events worldwide; for instance, in late July, he judged tattoos during the Gdańsk Tattoo Convention contests and is a regular guest at the Cheyenne Factory Day, held annually in Berlin.

- Michael is a fantastic and positive individual, whose work is characterized by utmost professionalism. I greatly value the opportunity to have met him and cherish the acquaintance! - says Marcin Pacześny, organizer of the Tattoo Konwent series.

Michael Murolo's passion for tattooing is an exciting and never-ending journey, and his path from a young artist to a respected talent scout is an inspiration for all who aspire to achieve success driven by passion and professionalism.