Trinity has many talented students in the arts, athletics and academics. For Senior Donnie Poland, it is art. Poland has found his passion and talent in tattooing. Even though he says he was thrown into the art form by mistake, he has come to love every aspect of it.
“I always wanted to do something art-related. I was going to go to college for it, then I stumbled upon tattooing and fell into it,” says Poland.
Instead of going to college, Poland has started working at Bound by Blood Tattoo Shop, formerly known as Studio 3. Poland highlights that even though talent is important, experience and hard work are just as essential to becoming a success.
“I’ve been drawing since freshman year, and I started tattooing a year ago. I just finished my apprenticeship as well,” says Poland.
Teachers always play some role in their students’ life decisions, no matter how big or how small. Poland speaks of the teachers who helped him find the art style he liked and encouraged his talent for it.
“People who have inspired me are my brother, Mrs. Bennet and Mrs. Restaneo. They have all encouraged me. But Mr. Merchant is the one who was a real driving force and helped me figure out the type of art style I’m good at. Trinity also played the biggest part in my artistic journey. If it wasn’t for all the art teachers and classes, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” says Poland.
Art teacher Restaneo talks about the talent she has seen in Poland in the small amount of time she has known him: “He’s definitely very interested in his craft, he can visually see different images, showing just how dedicated he really is.”
To check out Poland’s work, visit Bound by Blood Tattoo Studio on 950 Manifold Rd. in Washington, PA. Poland charges a minimum of $100, depending on the tattoo. It will be exciting to see what Poland does in the future with his career.
