Tattoo Pioneers: Jessie Knight

Jessie Knight (bottom right)

Jessie Knight

(b.1904 - Croydon) is recognized as Britain’s first female tattoo artist. The daughter of a sailor turned circus star/tattooer, Knight was introduced to the art form at 17-18 where she continued to work alongside her father in his Barry, South Whales shop. When women were expected to have children and look after their homes, Knight chose to run her own business in a very male-dominated world. Knight proclaimed the title “The World Famous Jessie Knight: Expert Freehand Lady Tattoo Artist” and gained popularity through the 1940s for her freehand designs and expressive illustrations. After a tumultuous seven year hiatus from tattooing due to a disapproving husband, Knight returned to tattooing, continuing to break down barriers and collected accolades such as second place in the Champion Tattoo artist of All England and the only woman to have entered the competition. Knight’s clientele included men but was predominately women. Now that’s badass.