Jorge “Tlac” Orozco is a junior at Fresno State, majoring in art with a focus in studio arts. He is also a full-time photographer, creative, and tattoo lover. When Jorge is not in school he is focusing on visual storytelling through photography.

Orozco goes by the name “Tlac,” which is short for Tlacuilo, which in the Aztec language means “scribe/artist,” which is very fitting for him as an individual. Each tattoo that he has does not go without meaning.

I sat down with Orozco and discussed a few of his favorite pieces, and he thanked me for providing him with the opportunity to talk about them.

“I honestly didn’t realize how much of my ink actually had some meaning and story to it until you approached me about it,” Orozco said. “To actually sit and dissect the whys truly took me back, and I want to thank you for that.”

An inside arm piece and a memorial for Jose Luis Thurman. This friendship was and is very special to Orozco. While being deployed, Thurman did a lot for Jorge, and he was his role model.

Jose Luis Thurman unfortunately passed away in an accident, and Orozco immediately got this in remembrance of his friend.

A memorial piece for Ziggy, named after Ziggy Marley. Orozco rescued this cat and although he never considered himself a cat person they had an instant connection.

Some people may not agree with his decision, but some of Ziggy’s ashes are blended into the ink. So a part of him is always with Orozco.

On his right thigh, Orozco has a piece from the Aztec calendar. The Nahui Ollin piece represents becoming one with life and moving forward. He wanted to get a piece that delved into his culture.

On his right shin is the most meaningful tattoo. This tattoo represents different people and chapters in his life. “The tattoo is unfinished because once it is, that will be my way of letting go of certain things,” Orozco said. “I haven’t let go yet.”