DAWN PURNELL

In her own words, Dawn Purnell is simple. Her work as a tattooist is a direct reflection her being. Dawn is very much a traditionalist, she is not be confused with an artist creating tattoos, she is to be recognized as a tattooist creating tattoos. Dawn's Custom Tattoo is a very comforting place littered with relics, literature, imagery, music, and character that bring the woman behind the needle to life.

Dawn's work has graced the pages of many renowned tattoo publications, and she has a client waiting list that spans months out. Her work is recognized within the community of Santa Fe, New Mexico as second to none. Dawn is a native of Indiana, but has found home in Santa Fe. After attending the prestigious Art Institute of Chicago, she apprenticed under third-generation tattooist Ira Handlon in Omaha, Nebraska. Dawn's crossroads have included Dallas, Indianapolis, Louisville, Chicago, and New Mexico. Dawn settled in Santa Fe in 1998 where she began working with the late Bill Wissman. Through her work with Bill, Dawn met Mark Vigil and the pair later opened 4 Star Tattoo. Six years later, Dawn opened Dawn's Custom Tattoo and embarked on road that she solely navigates.

Dawn is attracted to Japanese-themed work and favors taking on projects that allow her work to flow from top to bottom over the body. Her portfolio leaves you waiting, wanting, and wishing, and includes portraits, Japanese, tribal, abstract, animals, and other miscellaneous works. Welcome to the world of Dawn Purnell, a world that can be summed up in three little words: "Hands-On Love"

You can view some of Dawn’s current work here:

You can view a history of Dawn’s work, ranging from 10-20 years ago, here: