GABRIEL “GABO” BOCANEGRA
Gabriel “Gabo” Bocanegra | Illustrative & New School Artist
High-Saturation Artistry Rooted in Education and Florida Culture
Gabriel Bocanegra, known throughout the shop and the city as “Gabo,” has been a fixture of the Florida creative scene long before he began tattooing in 2017. With a professional background as a formal art instructor and body painter, Gabo brings a unique academic understanding of anatomy and color theory to The East Tattoo. His transition from teaching art to applying it permanently has resulted in a style that is technically rigorous, vibrant, and full of character.
The Style: Fluidity and New School Boldness
Gabo’s work is a high-energy expression of New School tattooing, characterized by "liquid" organic flows and a saturation level that makes his pieces pop off the skin. His favorite subjects include:
Pop Culture & Animation: Bold, high-contrast takes on classic cartoons, anime, and cinema.
The Sunshine State: A deep focus on Florida-centric imagery, from local citrus and tropical vegetation to indigenous wildlife.
Nature & Botanicals: Translating fruits, vegetables, and plants into vibrant, illustrative designs.
The Creative Challenge: From weird monsters to everyday objects, Gabo thrives on the process of taking a client's idea and reimagining it through a bold, custom lens.
An Orlando Mainstay
As a "man-about-town" and a familiar face in the local community, Gabo brings an infectious friendliness to every session. He believes the environment of the tattoo shop should be as vibrant as the art itself, making his station a welcoming space for both first-timers and seasoned collectors.
Off the Clock: Exploring the Florida Landscape
Gabo’s creativity doesn't shut off when he leaves the studio; he is a student of many mediums and is constantly experimenting with new ways to create. When he isn't at his drawing board, he is usually out exploring Florida’s natural landscapes—whether he’s paddleboarding through the springs, rock climbing, or scouting out the state's best swimming holes.
Booking & Availability
Gabo values efficiency and clear communication with his clients. He manages his inquiries personally and typically provides a same-day response to the form below.
