Living Art: A Tattoo Artist’s Story of Hope- featuring Rachael Cunningham from True Eden

Welcome back to the Wonder Creative Blog! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to a remarkable soul, Rachael Cunningham, also known as True Eden. She is the proud owner of True Eden, a tattoo studio nestled in Franklin, Tennessee.

I have had the privilege of knowing Rachael for nearly a decade. The admiration I hold for her is boundless.

In our conversation, Rachael and I delve into this intricate balance, exploring the nuances of maintaining roles of both artist and entrepreneur. We dive into the dance of intertwining our business practices with our faith journey, as followers of Jesus. 

Before we proceed, I’d like to offer a trigger warning. We discuss mental health-related subjects, If these topics are sensitive or triggering for you, please be mindful as we engage.

Rachael’s journey and testimonial in this sphere underscore her passion for creating a safe haven for those grappling with challenges like depression, anxiety, and self-harm.

Without further ado, I’m genuinely thrilled to introduce Rachael Cunningham.

WHO IS RACHAEL?

RACHAEL: 
I’m Rachael Cunningham, the owner of True Eden Studio, a tattoo haven. This studio has been the gateway that transformed my life. My heart is deeply embedded in the act of creation, and seeing my work come alive on skin has been a profound experience. 

Right now, tattooing is my calling. It’s taken time to reach this point, but I’m immensely thankful for the business I’ve nurtured. While I’ve predominantly walked this path alone, it wouldn’t be possible without the interconnectedness of others. Tattoo artists inhabit a unique corner of the creative realm. Our craft thrives on collaboration, relying on the involvement of another person. It’s communal by nature. I’ve found healing as I’ve sat with people, engaging in what I love while witnessing it come to life on someone else’s skin. 

Transitioning from tangible creations to knowing I might never see my work again has been a curious journey. While I acknowledge that tattooing isn’t my sole path forever, I’m grateful to own this business and shape it according to my vision for now.

WHY TATTOOS?

CHLOE:
What led you to choose tattoos as your creative outlet instead of exploring other artistic avenues like print or fine art?

RACHAEL:
Growing up, there was a constant echo suggesting that a career as an artist wasn’t viable due to the “starving artist” notion. Even in art classes, the direction lacked a focus on professional success. Art was my sanctuary, but anxiety led me to conceal my work as sharing felt vulnerable. I struggled with depression and suicide, eventually seeking help and discovering solace in art therapy during rehab.

This journey led me to tattooing, where I realized that embracing vulnerability and sharing my creations alleviated emotional turmoil. This path evolved into my career, but the challenge lies in maintaining the art’s pure essence amidst running a business. My journey felt authentic, although I once denied it, and now it’s pure again, even with the business aspect. Ensuring this purity remains crucial as I can’t forget why I embarked on this journey—it’s about more than art; it’s a profound expression.

CHLOE:
Your journey is so inspiring. Now, transitioning to your role as both an artist and business owner, I’m curious how you manage these aspects. Could you share insights on developing the name True Eden, your business model, and the intentional way you approach client bookings?

WHO IS TRUE EDEN?

RACHAEL:
I initially began tattooing as a way to explore my art again after a very traumatic time, to preserve its joy and avoid turning it into a business. For about two years, I tattooed on the side. Upon moving to Nashville, friends started spreading the word about my work. Seeing the demand, I felt the weight of responsibility to do it right, to create something worthy. This realization led to the birth of True Eden. I was searching for a name that encapsulated the healing journey I’d experienced, a truth that resonated with others as well. True Eden embodied that essence perfectly.

After four years of being licensed and six and a half years of tattooing, I officially named it True Eden three years ago. Amidst COVID, I realized I was forging a new path, honoring clients and co-creating rather than just providing a service. The journey has been about discovering my boundaries, preventing True Eden from being the sole thing I cherish about myself. Striking that balance between business and personal fulfillment is essential.

CHLOE:
It’s wild how we can wrap our entire identity around a single aspect of ourselves. I recently discussed this with someone, reflecting on how I used to view myself as synonymous with Wonder Creative. I tied my self-worth to it. I poured myself into my work, just as you do with tattooing, giving it immense value. It is so necessary to create strong boundaries to prevent personal identity from becoming too entangled.

You seem to do this really well. Did you face pressures to conform to a particular mold, or were you unafraid to carve your unique path? Were there moments of fear or concern about deviating from the norm and others’ opinions?

FREEDOM IN BOUNDARIES 

RACHAEL:
From the start, I didn’t feel scrutinized or compared to the industry norms, which granted me the freedom to create my own path in those initial two years. However, once I became licensed, I sensed a responsibility to honor the craft’s history and standards. Tattooing is unique; it’s a self-taught, state-mandated niche craft that’s handed down. So, I aimed to blend my story and clients’ stories with integrity in each piece I crafted.

Setting clear boundaries has played a key role in my success. While my industry often promotes a ‘come one, come all’ approach, I’ve chosen a private studio setting to prioritize both mental well-being and the quality of the experience. Despite external perceptions of pride, I’m truly humbled by the demand. Setting boundaries has allowed me to focus on delivering my best.

Even though there has been growth in demand, I’m limited by the fact that, as a tattoo artist, I can only physically create when touching skin. This has prompted a shift in how people perceive my work, as they desire instant consumption rather than seeing it as an evolving portfolio. Striking this balance has been challenging; carving out my space in the industry while avoiding direct comparison to what came before me. It’s about finding joy and honoring both myself and my clients by upholding my integrity. This journey has taught me not to solely identify with my business, recognizing that I am the heart of True Eden, but not the sum of it. True Eden is not the best part of me. I am the best part of it.

CHLOE:
What would you say is the best part of you? 

RACHAEL:
I’m incredibly proud to have stayed clean and sober for seven years, aligning my journey to freedom with my time as a tattoo artist, separated by only six months. Those months marked my transition into living again, and once I started tattooing, I never looked back. This decision to restart my life is what I’m most proud of, constantly choosing the harder but better path.

What I value most about myself is my ability to understand, to empathize and approach situations with insight while staying true to my life experiences. I embrace wisdom from diverse perspectives, understanding that our ultimate goals are to find safety and belonging. Tattooing has provided a beautiful avenue for me to cultivate this understanding, as my deepest desire is to connect and comprehend, a desire I continue to nurture.

CHLOE:
Understanding is truly your superpower! Sharing that with your clients is incredible because it’s not something you can list on paper. How do you convey that unique experience to someone? It’s in the trust they place in you, in the connection you build. And now, it’s led to this entire culture you’ve created. People come to you because of it, and you’re always highly recommended – your books are booked solid. I’ve got friends who say, ‘I tried to get on her schedule this year and couldn’t.’ You’re a hot commodity! You’ve got like 30,000 followers on Instagram, right? Do you mess around with TikTok at all, or are you just focusing on…?

GROWING PAINS

RACHAEL:
I initially resisted creating an Instagram, but eventually made one with a rebellious twist – no following, just showcasing my work. I didn’t want to succumb to the pressure of constantly seeking validation. It grew steadily, especially during the strange time of COVID when everyone seemed focused on things they’d been waiting for. It’s interesting how a crisis like that can oddly boost business. My bookings tripled, and I even hired an assistant for scheduling. However, I faced the dilemma of handling the surge in demand while maintaining integrity. I chose to close bookings temporarily to honor commitments and focus on a group I’d already agreed to. It paid off, leading to my books being almost perpetually closed, with brief openings twice a year.

It’s almost surreal to think about my journey. I started in a basement after rehab, and now I’ve built a consistent business in a notoriously unpredictable industry. My booking slots are limited, yet they offer a committed year’s salary. It’s humbling and overwhelming to realize so many people want something from me. I’m both unworthy and proud, scared and determined. Despite these feelings, I show up daily, giving it my best. It’s a mix of emotions, but it’s incredibly rewarding.

CHLOE:
Yeah, that’s an interesting point. Many creatives fall into the trap of wanting to please everyone and take on every opportunity, probably influenced by a scarcity mindset, fearing they won’t get another chance. It’s like they’re scrambling for any work they can get. But as you mentioned, there comes a time when you have to make that tough decision: Do I prioritize honoring my clients and my own creative process? 

It’s about considering if the client aligns with the direction you want for your business and if they’re the kind of client you’d want more of. I faced a similar dilemma when starting my business. I turned away non-creative clients and even focused solely on photographers for a while because that’s where my strength lay. It’s about building a portfolio and a culture rather than just providing a service for money. 

RACHAEL:
Yeah, that’s awesome! I had this conversation with a business manager during COVID. He made me realize that at this point, focusing on what clients are paying for, like designing and tattooing, makes more sense. Delegate scheduling for emotional space. I remember a time I triple-booked by accident and felt overwhelmed. It’s about finding a balance between survival and doing what truly matters. Like photographers stuck doing weddings. It’s the journey of learning what you love while being consistent. Turning things down can be strange for non-creatives who assume we’re always desperate for work. It’s about knowing yourself and what aligns with your business. People might expect logo designs from you, but it’s about passing on what doesn’t align and the client finding someone who excels in that.

LIVING ART

CHLOE:
I agree. What do you think is something that people misunderstand about what you do?

RACHAEL:
One surprising challenge for me has been letting go of the art I create. It can be difficult parting with my creations, so it’s ironic that I’m in an industry where everything I make walks out the door. There’s an emotional process to it, and I sometimes worry if I’ll create something I love as much again. 

I also often forget how intimidating it is for clients to enter a tattoo shop, but I appreciate the opportunity to make them feel safe and remember the experience. There’s a misconception that tattoo artists aren’t kind, but that’s shifting. People might perceive me as stoic due to the boundaries I set in the booking process, but once those are established, it’s a joyful and heartfelt experience. The essence of it is felt when someone walks in and realizes they’ve already been honored and can fully enjoy the process.

CHLOE:
I love that! Boundaries can seem scary, but they’re like a cup that holds the water you pour into it. Without boundaries, things can spill over and get messy. Being a vessel for creativity requires boundaries, and you handle that really well. Your approach is admirable. Now, could you tell us about the Hope Eden event and your heart behind it? I’m quite passionate about mental health too, and seeing someone like you stepping up in that space is amazing.

WHAT IS HOPE EDEN?

RACHAEL:
Absolutely. I couldn’t step into this space without honoring my journey. Six months before I began tattooing, I was in treatment, and that’s crucial. After leaving treatment, my first tattoo was a semicolon on my wrist, even though it’s not perfectly done. It reminded me daily to stay present. If I could help others make this promise, I was all in. 

I’ve always done free semicolons, and in 2020, I dedicated Mental Health Awareness Month and Suicide Prevention Week to creating Hope Eden. It started with semicolons, the word “hope,” and the Star of Bethlehem. I did around 900 semicolons in total. The impact has been incredible. 

Since then, I’ve hosted a massive event with 11 tattooers, tattooing 140 people and a concert afterward. It’s been life-changing, seeing over 600 people walking around with “hope” on their skin. From a basement with an Amazon tattoo kit to this, it’s surreal. 

I’ve also focused on self-harm scar transformations. The stories are deeply touching, like a girl who stopped self-harming after our appointment. Her transformation is my anthem. Now, I’m gearing up for a scars-only event during Suicide Prevention Week. This work feels like an expression of God’s heartbeat, an offering of what I’ve been given. It’s an unexplainable joy and privilege to be a part of these journeys.

CHLOE:
You’re such a beautiful soul. This conversation has given me a week’s worth of motivation. You’ve brilliantly intertwined your core self with your business, sharing that overflow with people. After my mom’s suicide when I was 16, my mission became shining brightly for others, showing love, hope, and the value of staying. It’s a tough topic, but progress has been made. I see people identifying solely with pain, and I believe there’s a better path. Pain is valid, but it doesn’t have to define us. Your event reflects this beautifully. You help people see they don’t need to cling to brokenness; hope exists. Your intention to change lives resonates deeply with me as a testament to the fact that there’s a way beyond pain. Just beautiful.

RACHAEL:
Thank you. One of my favorite things about Hope Endes is all funds raised go to counseling centers for free counseling. Mental health progress is talking about it, but we’ve gone so deep it becomes identity. You’re not just that; you’re whole and evolving. It’s about reminding people: start with hope. Hopelessness isn’t acceptance. You can hold sadness and hope. It’s in two hands. I never expected this advocacy role, but people want real experiences. 

CHLOE:

So true! How do you navigate integrating your faith and business, especially for Christian entrepreneurs who may feel hesitant about bringing their beliefs into the business world?

FAITH IN BUSINESS

RACHAEL:
Yeah, that’s an awesome question. At the beginning, I thought I knew what was holy, thinking about what images to avoid. There was a moment from my earlier days that illustrates this perfectly. A friend, an atheist, wanted a ghost tattoo. I declined, feeling it wasn’t aligned with my beliefs. However, after praying, I felt God’s message: “I made everything. Ask me first, for I can reclaim anything, Rachael.” I redesigned the ghost as the Holy Ghost, sharing my faith journey with the client during the tattoo session. The Holy Spirit’s presence was undeniable, moving him deeply.

This experience shifted my perspective. God can make anything His own. It’s about who I bring to Him through my work, not just the imagery. It’s obedience and making choices that might not make logical sense but align with His wisdom. Early in my career, God set a boundary of three tattoos per person. I resisted, then accepted, and my income unexpectedly grew by three after honoring it. This limitation has become a unique offering, where God’s presence is the true special factor, making True Eden distinct.

CHLOE:
It’s truly amazing. Finding someone who balances a successful business while staying attuned to the Spirit is rare. You’ve learned to hear the Lord uniquely for your work. You’re essentially His hands and feet in what you do. It’s beautiful how your passion extends both from you and from Him.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR TRUE EDEN?

CHLOE:
What’s next for True Eden? You mentioned Suicide Prevention Week, but is there anything else on the horizon?

RACHAEL:
I’m realizing I’m not meant to be alone anymore, and I’m preparing for a future where True Eden is surrounded by individuals needing a safe place to create. I envision many names involved, forgetting mine, although I’m questioning if I’m ready to fully let go. The future is about growth, not necessarily in the same way as other shops, but offering help to those who need it. I’m stepping back more to spread True Eden’s essence and balancing my life’s value outside the studio, making it a safe place. This personal journey involves honoring growth and well-being while embracing lingering aspects from my past.

CHLOE:
I believe you’ll receive clear guidance from the Lord on all these things. This endeavor is dear to you and Him; I sense His delight. The alignment will be perfect, and I’m excited to see it unfold.

For those not connected yet, how can they reach you? 

______

CONNECT WITH TRUE EDEN

RACHAEL:
My Instagram handle is @trueEdenStudio. I also have a website where you can learn how to connect more personally and learn more about True Eden and upcoming events.