Today we’d like to introduce you to Brie Hawke
Hi Brie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always been a creative at heart. My mother, an artist herself, made our home feel like an art school; constantly filled with projects, inspiration, and encouragement. She saw my natural artistic ability early on and nurtured it, giving me the foundation I have today. Growing up, I never really fit in with other kids, no matter where I went, so I found comfort in creative expression-writing poetry and children’s books, drawing, acting, singing, and immersing myself in books. Art was my safe space.
Tattoos always intrigued me. I got my first one at 17, and a friend who was tattooing at the time sparked something in me. My close friends encouraged me to pursue tattooing, but I lacked confidence. At the time, I was going through a lot of trauma that shattered my self-esteem, making tattooing feel like an impossible dream. Fast forward 10 years, and in the midst of my healing journey, I had an undeniable intuitive pull toward it. My body was struggling to recover from all of the trauma I had experienced through, and I knew working a conventional job wasn’t sustainable for me or my nervous system. I needed something that aligned with both my healing and my creativity- something that allowed me to help others while also supporting myself. That’s when tattooing found me.
About five years ago, I fully committed. I started drawing and painting again-things I had abandoned for years due to the lack of safety I felt in being creative. I went through a couple of mentorships and had the honor of learning from incredible, well-known artists who shaped my skills. Tattooing keeps me present; it teaches me to sit with myself. More than just an art form, it’s a deeply healing practice-for me and for my clients. It’s about connection, transformation, and creating a space where people feel seen.
Now, with four years in the industry, I’ve moved into my own private studio, where I can fully cultivate the experience I want to offer. I also recently started mentoring other aspiring artists, helping them find confidence in their craft. I’m excited to keep growing, both as an artist and as a guide for others on their own creative journeys. Tattooing has truly been a gift, and I’m so grateful for where it’s taken me.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Tattooing is a tough industry to break into, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be where I am today. One of the biggest challenges has been navigating the pressure to keep up with social media trends just to stay booked. Imposter syndrome is always lurking, and the constant comparison-both within the industry and as an artist in general-can be draining. The tattoo world is more saturated than ever, which makes standing out even more challenging.
I also find it difficult to find a space that aligns with my energy. As an artist, especially someone who is more inward and a bit of a “lone wolf,” it’s tough to find a shop that feels like the right fit. While I love heavy metal and appreciate that environment, it doesn’t always align with my spiritual, healing-driven approach. Finding a space where I can fully be myself has been a challenge. I’ve accepted that about myself, which is why I moved into my own private studio.
Owning a business comes with its rewards, but it also carries stress. There’s so much to manage-from scheduling to finances-all while trying to stay authentic to my vision. Keeping my books full and resisting the urge to compare myself to others online has been tough, especially when you’re still building a clientele. But through it all, I remind myself that it’s about creating something real and lasting.
My long-term goal is to expand and open a larger studio-one that offers a unique atmosphere and experience that people can’t find just anywhere. A space that is just as I envisioned, something I couldn’t find for myself. I want to offer that to others-a place where they feel seen, heard, and supported, not just as clients, but as humans.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a black and grey fine line tattoo artist, and I specialize in fine line work, which I’m incredibly proud of. I’m known for my precision and attention to detail in every piece. While fine line is my main focus, I love to explore other styles as I continue to grow and evolve as an artist. Realism is a particular passion of mine, and I’m excited to dive deeper into it, both in my drawing and tattoo work.
What truly sets me apart is that I’m not just a tattoo artist-I see myself as a healer. My work is more than just ink on skin; it’s about creating a space for healing and connection. Each tattoo I do is an opportunity to offer a transformative experience, both for myself and my clients. I believe in the power of art to heal, and that philosophy is what guides my work.
I also choose not to use color ink because I’m mindful of the potential toxicity in colored inks, especially red, which has been banned in some countries. I care deeply about what I put into my own body, and I’m equally conscious of what I’m putting into others. The ink I use is vegan and made in the US, reflecting my commitment to safety, quality, and the well-being of both my clients and myself.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
People might assume, based on my appearance, that I’m the life of the party. At first glance, I may look like a certain type of person, but the truth is, I don’t drink-I only use plant medicine, and I’m deeply spiritual and wholesome. Despite being heavily tattooed, my lifestyle is quite the opposite of what some might expect. Though I do love metal music, and I have my throat tattooed, that doesn’t mean I’m out partying on 6th Street. In fact, I’d much rather be at home with my doggies lighting my favorite incense or on the lake with a good book. It’s a reminder that with tattoos, you truly can’t judge a book by its cover.
Pricing:
- $200 hourly
- half day/ day rates
- by the piece
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breezytattooart/
- Yelp: my reviews are in my highlights on my instagram under “reviews” currently making new yelp/google review for new private space
Image Credits
me
