Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to “morbid” Mark Dalton. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
“Morbid” Mark, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
As an artist, I often find myself navigating spaces where my experiences, perspectives, or even my level of success may set me apart. Whether I’m the most accomplished person in the room or among those with greater achievements, I’ve learned to leverage each scenario as a learning opportunity.
When I am the most successful or talented, I view it as a dual responsibility: to stay humble and continuously grow while using my platform to uplift others. I believe that true leadership in creative spaces involves not just showcasing your skills but actively mentoring and fostering a culture of open dialogue and collaboration. For instance, in a recent project, my role as the lead artist wasn’t just about directing—it was about creating a space where everyone felt valued and inspired to contribute. This approach not only elevated the project but also built a sense of shared success.
Conversely, when I’m not the most accomplished in the room, I see it as a chance to learn from those around me. I’m intentional about observing the habits, strategies, and decision-making processes of those who excel. I reflect on what works well for them and how I can adapt those elements to enhance my own practice. This isn’t about imitation but rather about integrating effective strategies into my unique creative voice.
Ultimately, it’s about being adaptable and open-minded. Whether I’m leading or learning, I strive to keep pushing my boundaries while contributing to a positive and growth-oriented environment. Success, to me, is a balance of personal achievement and the impact you leave on those around you.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My journey has been shaped by overcoming addiction through recovery, hard work, and the transformative power of art. For much of my life, I was caught in cycles of addiction that felt inescapable. Art became a lifeline for me, serving as both an outlet for my struggles and a pathway to rediscovering myself. It allowed me to channel my experiences into something meaningful, turning personal battles into a source of creativity and inspiration.
Today, I’m a full-time student at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design, where I’m continually honing my craft and pushing my creative boundaries. I also own and operate my own tattoo shop, where I blend my passion for art with a love for storytelling, creating custom designs that resonate deeply with my clients. This work is especially rewarding because it allows me to connect with people on a personal level, using art to celebrate their unique journeys.
What excites me most about my work is the intersection of personal expression and community connection. Each piece I create, whether on canvas or skin, is an opportunity to share a message of resilience and transformation. I’m currently working on a series that explores themes of recovery and self-discovery, aiming to inspire others who may be navigating their own struggles.
Outside of my art and studies, I enjoy an outdoorsy lifestyle that keeps me grounded and connected to the world around me. Whether it’s fishing, camping, or simply being in nature, these moments of solitude and adventure fuel my creativity and remind me of the beauty in every day.
Through my art, my shop, and my studies, I aim to not only grow as an artist but also to create a space where stories of struggle and triumph can be shared and celebrated. My brand is about more than just art—it’s about finding strength in vulnerability, embracing the journey, and inspiring others to see the potential for beauty and change in their own lives.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, the most impactful qualities that have shaped my path are resilience, embracing vulnerability (and my mistakes), and learning to balance life’s demands.
Resilience: My journey through recovery, art, and business taught me the importance of resilience—the ability to keep going even when things get tough. Resilience isn’t about never feeling defeated; it’s about rising each time you fall and finding strength in your setbacks. My advice to anyone starting out is to embrace challenges as part of the process. Failures and obstacles are inevitable, but they are also opportunities to learn and grow. Build resilience by setting small, achievable goals, celebrating progress, and reminding yourself why you started.
Embracing Vulnerability and Mistakes: Vulnerability and the courage to acknowledge mistakes have been game-changers for me. I’ve learned that mistakes aren’t failures—they’re stepping stones to improvement. Being open about my struggles, including my journey through addiction, has not only helped me grow but also allowed me to connect deeply with others. My advice? Don’t shy away from your errors. Instead, use them as learning tools. When you make a mistake, take the time to reflect on what went wrong, and how you can do better next time. This mindset shift turns setbacks into powerful lessons and keeps you moving forward.
Learning to Balance Life: Balancing life’s demands—whether it’s managing my tattoo shop, being a student, or enjoying time outdoors—has been crucial to my well-being. It’s easy to get caught up in one aspect of life and neglect others, but I’ve found that maintaining balance is essential for long-term success and happiness. My advice to those just starting out is to prioritize self-care and time management. Set boundaries, make time for what recharges you, and don’t be afraid to say no when necessary. Balance isn’t about having it all figured out; it’s about constantly adjusting and being mindful of your needs.
For those beginning their journey, remember that resilience, embracing your mistakes, and finding balance are skills you develop over time. Be kind to yourself, stay adaptable, and trust that every challenge is shaping you into a stronger, more well-rounded version of yourself.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
My biggest challenge right now is time—or more accurately, never feeling like there’s enough of it to pursue all my ambitions. Between running my tattoo shop, being a full-time student, creating new art, and making time for recreation and personal life, it often feels like there just aren’t enough hours in the day.
To tackle this, I’m learning the importance of prioritization and setting realistic boundaries. I’ve started breaking my goals into smaller, more manageable steps and focusing on what needs my attention most in the moment. It’s about recognizing that I can’t do everything at once, and that’s okay. I’ve also been more intentional about scheduling downtime, knowing that rest and recharging are just as important as working hard.
Another strategy I’ve embraced is learning to delegate and ask for help when needed. Whether it’s enlisting support at my shop or leaning on classmates for study groups, I’m realizing that I don’t have to do it all alone. It’s a process, and I’m constantly adjusting, but I’m finding that being mindful of my time and energy helps me stay on track without burning out.
Moreover, it’s a balancing act, and I’m striving to enjoy the journey, knowing that every step forward, no matter how small, is a move towards achieving my goals.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://scurvydogtattoo.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morbidmarkd/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.dalton.12382923
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