Driven by a passion for art and nature, Jessie Violet Van Herring embarked on a bold journey across the Rocky Mountains in February 2011, a move that led her to the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon. Leaving behind the snowy landscapes of Duluth, Minnesota, Jessie sought out Portland based on its reputation as an artistic hub. The lush greenery and diverse plant life of the Pacific Northwest captivated her, a stark contrast to her upbringing in a small, industrial city on Lake Superior.
Jessie’s appreciation for the natural world was nurtured from a young age, growing up in the Wisconsin north woods with biologist and naturalist parents. Her childhood was filled with art, plants, reading, and wildlife. Early artistic endeavors included watercolors inspired by National Geographic and large collages from seed catalogs, foreshadowing her later focus on botanical themes in her tattoos. Art served as a powerful medium for Jessie, a space to express her dreams and emotions. This artistic inclination merged with a deep fascination for body art, particularly tattooing, sparking a dream of a career in the field.
After graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Wisconsin Superior in 2010, with a focus on painting and metalwork, Jessie made the move to Portland and began her tattoo career in 2011. Today, she thrives as a tattoo artist in NE Portland, alongside her husband, daughter, three cats, and a collection of houseplants, all reflecting her love for nature. Since 2017, Jessie has operated Wallflower Tattoo, her own studio space, where she skillfully translates ideas into stunning tattoos that often feature botanical elements, including delicate violet flowers. She expresses gratitude for the opportunity to share her passion for the natural world through her art, connecting with others who appreciate the same beauty.
