Meet Danielle Breen | Tattoo Artist and Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Danielle Breen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Danielle, why did you pursue a creative career?
I have had interest in the arts from a very young age. I grew up watching my mother paint and make stained glass, and became fascinated with every part of the process. I love the amount of uninhibited self expression art embodies. Art in various forms has always been a beacon to me for what is possible in life, and a great representation of mind over matter. In choosing tattooing for a career path, I can help our community find their unique form of self expression through the body art industry.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey into being a creative, specifically a tattoo artist, has been extremely challenging. I started out in street shops, which at the time, were male dominated. Being the only woman in these shops was definitely challenging, but ultimately I chose to learn from every challenge that came my way so that I could grow as an artist and individual, instead of being knocked down. There were lots of times where I was stereotyped or told I only got to where I was at because of superficial reasoning. Nonetheless I persevered. I started this journey when I was 19 and had decided to become a tattoo artist when I was still in high school, so it was definitely something I wanted and was willing to work hard for. Through my journey I have discovered that I can overcome some of the most challenging situations, mostly through a shift in mindset.

Something about my brand and story is that it represents bold, strong feminine energy, much like what carried me through my apprenticeship. It embodies flowing, gentle strength with a little bite. I have found that a lot of my inspiration comes from shining light on the unseen beauty in our world. Some of which, may go unnoticed or under appreciated. I like to spotlight them and let them glow in their ethereal essence.

A common theme in my work includes subject matter like moths, lanterns, and embellishments. I like to adorn these with the undertones of celestial creations, mysticism, and introspection. Some of the most beautiful things in the world, in my opinion, are not the loudest. They don’t scream for attention, but if you listen closely, they carry a resounding echo of both reverence and divinity.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
“At My Place”, in my opinion has some of the best food. I would definitely recommend this restaurant if you want something special and out of the norm. The Lechon Kawali is to die for.
I also love a good day hike up Piestewa Peak (you gotta get your steps in!). For some night life, let’s go down to the Van Buren for a 2000’s themed dance party! It’s always a good time. Then we could wrap up the next day with some brunch at Honey 2 A Bee – Coffee and Crepes. The Nutella crepes just send me to heaven!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’m all about showing gratitude to others, especially when they have shown kindness and offered their support. I have many people to shoutout for this, but I will start with a few.

I’m very thankful for my mom for being so encouraging and supportive. It has been a huge blessing to have a positive influence when a lot of times the art industry can be discouraging.

I would like to give a shoutout to my partner, Ange McNeese, for helping me grow immensely as an artist in this community. She has shown me techniques and trade skills that are incredibly valuable to me, as well as endless encouragement. Ange has helped me through many life changes and has been able to celebrate countless accomplishments with me, and I am incredibly thankful for her presence in my life.

Lastly, a shoutout to my mentor Joe Tower for taking me on as an apprentice and showing me the ins and outs of the tattoo world. The time I spent at the studio with Joe really solidified my drive for becoming a tattoo artist and my desire to start my journey to becoming an entrepreneur.

Website: https://www.magicrabbittattoo.com

Instagram: @daniellebreen.tattoos

Other: Tik Tok: @daniellebreen.tattoos

Image Credits
Dillon Swaba