Shellyne Rodriguez Opened New York Tattoo Parlor

The former academic and artist has launched a tattoo business while maintaining her role at Parsons School of Design.

Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in People

Bold flat-color editorial illustration depicting a minimalist architectural iron threshold and brick storefront corner, evoking an urban commercial space. — Shellyne Rodriguez has launched a new tattoo parlor, Comrade Comadre, in New York City, marking a shift from her previous career in academia. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Shellyne Rodriguez, a 46-year-old artist and educator, has opened a tattoo parlor in New York City called Comrade Comadre. The business offers unique designs, including Soviet-inspired imagery and Arabic lettering.

Why it matters

The transition marks a career pivot for Rodriguez following her departures from multiple academic institutions. The parlor also functions as a community library and a speakeasy-style space for local patrons.

The NYC Department of Cultural Affairs awarded Rodriguez a total grant of $407,000 for a public art project. From that total, she received $81,400 specifically for the construction of a 23-foot-tall statue unveiled in The Bronx.

The players

Shellyne Rodriguez

She is a 46-year-old artist and educator who currently serves as part-time faculty at the Parsons School of Design.

Hunter College

This is a public college in New York City where Rodriguez formerly held a teaching position.

Cooper Union

This private college in New York City is an academic institution that previously employed Rodriguez.

Parsons School of Design

This is a private art and design college in New York City where Rodriguez currently maintains a faculty role.

NYC Department of Cultural Affairs

This is the city agency responsible for awarding arts grants and supporting cultural projects across the five boroughs.

The details

Rodriguez advertises the studio through social media as a speakeasy parlor that doubles as a library. Her professional background includes past faculty roles at Hunter College and Cooper Union, which ended in 2023 and 2024 respectively.

Hunter College fired Rodriguez in 2023.
Cooper Union fired Rodriguez in 2024.
A 23-foot-tall statue by Rodriguez was unveiled in The Bronx in November 2025.
The news was reported as of September 19, 2026.

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Market Landscape

This project was funded through the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, illustrating how the city channels public funds to independent artists for municipal beautification. The venture aligns with broader trends of public-private partnerships in New York art infrastructure.

Residents and customers interested in the parlor can visit the speakeasy-style space to view the unique design catalog. The venture provides a new retail option for those seeking specialized artistic services in the community.

The takeaway

The move demonstrates the diverse paths modern artists take between public commissions and private entrepreneurship. Readers can see how professional pivots continue to shape the local cultural scene in New York City.