Collection: Tai Taeoalii

Tai Taeoalii, a U.S.-born Samoan/Dutch artist, grew up in 1980s suburban Salt Lake City, Utah. Navigating cultural identity challenges as a bi-racial individual, Tai found solace and expression in the arts during his turbulent teen years. His autodidactic journey led him to explore graffiti, tattoo art, music, and film, earning accolades in filmmaking. Yet, drawing with a ballpoint pen became his enduring passion, shaping his artistic career.

Over two decades, Tai has garnered nearly 1 million followers on social media and sold countless original artworks globally. With his wife and children, he traveled extensively, showcasing the versatility of ballpoint pen art at galleries and fairs in cities like Chicago, Dallas, Miami, and more.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted Tai's thriving career, halting his travels and shows. Undeterred, he devoted himself to restoring an 1851 pre-Civil War home in Hannibal, Missouri. Completed in 2022, the home now serves as Art By Tai’s Ol’ Blue Gallery and Guesthouse, featuring a studio, workshop, gallery, and rentable Airbnb loft.

In 2021, Tai launched The DOD45 Show on YouTube, combining interviews with renowned guests like Sage Francis and Craola with live custom drawings. He has also published a children’s book with his wife and several art books, including Book of Arms, INK’Taiber, and Under An Hour: Vol. 1, all available at ArtByTai.com.

Occasionally hosting remote drawing sessions titled Drink and Draw With Tai, he continues to inspire audiences worldwide. Follow him @ArtByTai or visit ArtByTai.com for more.