A Brief History of the Artist Rachel Cook

When I first considered how I would want to be known in the art industry, I wanted a name that carried more than just my identity. Growing up, my mother would call me Rae-Rae or her "Rae of Sunshine", which I found a sense of warmth and energy in. This is how Sunrae Tattoos came to exist, as my first venture into the realm of supporting myself as a full time artist. 

While my journey began in tattooing, I always aspired to make art beyond body adornment alone. I envisioned a creative ecosystem where I could grow as both an entrepreneur and a multi-disciplinary maker. Sunrae Studio is the evolution of that dream- a space dedicated to my creative and intuitive pursuits. 

As I continue to navigate my career, I gain greater clarity and insight around what I want to carry forward in my art and in how I show up. My work as a tattoo artist has run parallel to my own healing journey, and my passion for healing, astrology, and connection to nature and land has become central to how I choose to practice adorning the body with art. 

My specialty is in illustrative designs inspired by the natural world. I approach my practice of tattooing as an opportunity to reframe experiences, transform body perspective and self-image, and adorn the body to accentuate the natural form. My designs incorporate the use of negative space to create breathing room and compositional hierarchy that is accentuated by contrasting line weights and values. Stippled shading gives the illusion of detail while incorporating a visually striking texture to all my tattoo designs. 

With a BA in Studio Art (2016) and a professional background spanning graphic design, marketing, and the outdoor industry, I bring a diverse perspective to every project. These experiences have shaped the discipline and vision I implement in my studio every day.