The Delaware Department of Correction (DOC) has introduced a new career pathway program at the James T. Vaughn Correctional Center (JTVCC), providing six inmates with the opportunity to train as professional tattoo artists. The Tattoo Artist Career Pathway Program aims to support the rehabilitation of incarcerated individuals while addressing health concerns related to unsanctioned and unsanitary tattoo practices in prisons.
“We acknowledge that tattooing is part of prison culture, and we’re concerned about the health risks associated with unsanitary tattooing practices within our facilities,” said Department of Correction Commissioner Terra Taylor. “This program brings prison tattooing into a controlled, safe, and educational environment, reducing the risk of bloodborne diseases like Hepatitis. It also creates meaningful career opportunities for inmates, encourages good behavior, and contributes to the safety of the facility.”
The program, a pilot vocational training initiative, provides inmates with a structured pathway to learn tattoo artistry in a clean, supervised setting. Participants must demonstrate artistic skill and meet specific criteria, including good behavior and a commitment to rehabilitation. The first cohort of six inmates has completed 24 weeks of classroom training, which covers health and safety practices, proper tool usage, artistic design, and tattooing techniques.
The inmates now practice their skills in a converted storage space within the prison, where they are permitted to ink tattoos for fellow inmates, who pay with personal funds. The program is supervised by Correctional Officers, with oversight from JTVCC staff. The curriculum was developed in collaboration with licensed tattoo artist Larry Normile, who brings 27 years of industry experience and a strong background in mentorship for individuals involved in the criminal justice system.
Normile, the program’s lead instructor, emphasizes the importance of both technical skill and professional ethics. “I am passionate about teaching and excited about the opportunity to help incarcerated individuals develop their talents and prepare for a successful career upon release,” said Normile, who owns Artistic Additions tattoo studio in Dover. “The program is already showing positive results. I’ve been impressed with the students’ artistic abilities, attitudes, and work ethic. It’s opening the door to second chances.”
The Tattoo Artist Career Pathway Program spans 12 to 18 months, depending on the pace and skill proficiency of each participant. Under the continuous supervision of instructors and security staff, inmates gain hands-on experience, develop marketable skills, and earn industry recognition.
In addition to providing vocational training, the program helps reduce taxpayer costs associated with treating communicable diseases that may spread through unregulated tattooing in prison. As the program progresses, it is expected to expand and offer further opportunities for inmates to build meaningful careers and reintegrate into society post-incarceration.
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