We had the good fortune of connecting with Gabrielle Painter-downing and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gabrielle, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
For me it always comes back to authenticity and self compassion. Having art as a job is such a blessing and also a big time journey through the self and self worth. It stirs up things and shows you paths you wouldn’t expect. It’s vulnerable and so to me it’s important to have compassion and stay true to myself, first.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I feel that my intention and heart space connection is what supports my art and my journey so very much.
I am most proud of how much I have grown and shifted and integrated while learning and honing in on my craft, I always say the journey wasn’t ever just about tattooing. It’s been about all the versions of myself I have been able to meet and honor. I would say it definitely wasn’t “easy” by any means, it’s been one of the most challenging and equally rewarding journeys I’ve taken. One of my biggest takeaways is to always trust myself.
I want the world to know that I believe we are all worthy and we are all artists.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If I had a friend visiting whom has never been to Tucson. I would definitely take them to Mt Lemmon. I would take them to 4th Ave to enjoy the eclectic shops and the buzz of the city. I would take them to the San Xavier Mission. That’s just a few things to name. For eating we love The Coronet, Zio Peppe, The Cup Cafe, El Rustico, La Frida. Tucson is FULL of hidden gems and so many cool and exciting people and things!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am so grateful for my mentor Vanessa Baird, owner of Bon Beaute Creative Hub, she has been a gentle guide and educator for me since the beginning of my journey and I have so much gratitude for her.

My husband, Justin who had supported my efforts and my journey, through the highs and lows.

Website: https://www.bonbeautetucson.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielle_bonbeaute/profilecard/?igsh=MWk4ZzBjM2phdjQ5Yw==

Image Credits
Rachel Nobel Images
Jen Sawyer Video | Photo

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.