Spirit Alchemy Tattoo

River is not only an incredible artist but also an exceptional human being! I am madly in love with the meaningful art that she has created and left her presence wrapped up in all the love. She has an immeasurable talent and holds space for you and whatever it is that you might be going through. Her unique salon holds the most welcoming space. I can not be happier with my tattoo and look forward to seeing the transformation as it gets finished! Thank you kind soul!

I cannot sing enough praises about River Dawn and my experience getting tattooed at her studio! The design process was a collaborative joy and we settled on a piece that was more beautiful and perfect for ME than I could have ever imagined. It is obvious that River is deeply passionate about her work, and her studio is a sacred sanctuary. She ensures her clients are comfortable, relaxed, and does not rush the process - she understands deeply how special the experience of getting a tattoo is and is by your side for the journey. Did I mention how jaw-droppingly gorgeous her work is? I am still in awe that I have such a masterpiece on my body. River is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, clean, caring, and talented. This is more than a job for her. She has my deepest gratitude and strongest recommendation - get on her books, it is more than worth the wait!

Tattooing is a metaphysical experience, and River knows how to wield this combination of art and magic with great reverence to her patrons. Incorporating ritual alchemy into each session is just one of the ways she ensures that each individual enters her space feeling grounded and held, then leaves afterwards feeling lighter and re-energized. I was lucky enough to get to work with her on a design I had wanted for ages. She made sure I was involved in the process from conceptualization, to placement, and even during the tattooing process. Needless to say, I am beyond thrilled with our results. I cannot recommend River and her services enough to anyone looking for unique, permanent adornments on their body.

This is a completely different experience than other tattoo shops. Its a calm, peaceful and creative space. Ive had River do my last two tattoos and I will keep coming back. She is very patient and works with you to create something truly special.

I cannot sing enough praises for River, her place, and the process!The tattoo: River put so much time and consideration into creating the perfect, individualized, ornamental tattoo for me. There was patience, thoughtfulness, and thoroughness throughout the process. With her extensive knowledge of symbolism and origins of the symbols, she helped me connect with all of the parts and interpretations of the tattoo that aligned with exactly what I desired. She was gentle with tattooing and shared ways to ease the pain (that actually worked!) and was very accommodating when I needed a break. She was communicative about her ideas for the tattoo and was very accommodating for any changes I wanted to make.The space: From the minute I walked into River’s studio, I immediately felt at ease, as much effort was put into this space to create a healing environment. All of the senses were accounted for in this wonderful environment— the design and art in the room, the music choices, the smell of palo santo, the taste of the herbal tea she served me, and the overall warmth and comfort of the room created such a positive experience. I could stay in that room forever!After getting a tattoo by River, I couldn’t imagine going to anyone else. The natural talent she possesses paired with her hard work over the years to build upon her skill is unmatched in this art style. She’s also one of the most amazing people I’ve ever met. 10/10, highly recommend!

River is so kind and so welcoming, both as a person and as an artist. Her intentional art makes you feel so alive and so at peace with yourself. I have had the pleasure of receiving a flash piece and a custom piece from her, and both times were such wonderful experiences. Getting a tattoo can be daunting, no matter how many times youve done it, but River makes it so easy and creates such a wonderful environment for self expression that you will leave feeling like the best version of yourself. I cannot recommend River enough, whether youre seasoned in getting tattoos, or are getting your first, she has set a new standard for how getting tattooed should be. I cannot wait to go back to see her!!

From the moment I walked in the door for my appointment I felt at home and was at ease. The space and every curated item in it has peace and purpose. It was an entirely magical experience. River is an artist in every sense of the word. She was kind and attentive to my needs. The way she welcomed me to be an active participant and offered me space to align my mind and soul with the work made this all the more special. Im beyond thrilled with how the piece turned out and am highly anticipating my next experience. Truly amazing. All the love!

River worked her magical body art skills to bring my tattoo idea to life on my back! She made me feel comfortable and right at home in her clean, lovely studio. She creates an intimate and warm space to design and draw the tattoo with her as she gets to know you and listens to your story and tattoo inspiration. Her guidance and suggestions were spot on and she absolutely nailed what I wanted.. and then some. Absolutely blew me away.. She took so much care and time making sure I absolutely loved the design. The whole experience was unlike any tattoo session I’ve encountered and I am so thankful I found her. I would highly recommend her to anyone who wants to experience the sacred ritual tattoo the way it is meant to be experienced. It was a worthy 6hr journey for me to her studio, and it will not be the last.

If you are looking for someone who genuinely cares about you, your body, and does clean beautiful tattooing go see River. She does everything to make you feel comfortable and made my first tattoo experience so calming and exciting all at the same time. I never felt pushed or unheard and most importantly I felt connected to myself and the process. Spirit Alchemy is a beautiful sacred space for getting a tattoo only made possible by the free and grounding River Dawn.

Better than I could of imagined! I have had the vision for this piece for over 20 years. It was not until I saw Rivers work that I trusted someone to help me bring it forth. Her ability to take my ideas and turn it into such a beautiful piece was mind blowing. She came up with such incredible ideas to put in the piece and the composition was perfect! The experience was also very pleasant. This is a safe space with a truly gifted and kind artist. Forever grateful.

Hands down, the best freakin tattoo experience I’ve ever had. River is not only an insanely talented tattoo artist, she is a stellar human being and just down to earth. I felt well cared for and heard which resulted in one of the most beautiful, meaningful tattoos I have. You are not just getting a tattoo with River, you get a full experience of love, humor, acceptance and care. Thank you thank you thank you River.

Working with River hs been one of the best tattoo experiences I have had. She listened to what I wanted and was able to create a design more beautiful than I could have hoped for. I literally cried when I saw it. She puts so much love and positive intention into her work and it shows. I am just starting my River collection.

River created such an amazing experience from the atmosphere, professionalism, and quality of work. She helped me feel comfortable throughout the whole session. The tattoo River created for me turned out absolutely stunning and was above and beyond my expectations. I am honored to have her beautiful work on me.

River has done multiple pieces for me, and I will continue to go back again and again. She is such an amazing human being, and truly talented artist. One of the (countless) reasons I will continue to go to Spirit Alchemy for work is how intentional the entire experience is. She really holds space for her clients. She listens and works to create a custom piece to fit her client’s vision. I’ve gotten tattoos from artists across the country, and a session with River is really beyond compare. The entire experience is just really pleasant; from the physical space of her own private studio right in downtown, to the time she takes to make sure you will walk out with a true piece of art. She is such a kind and genuine soul who is really gifted in her craft. I couldn’t recommend her more!

River is an incredibly talented lady! She listened to every word I spoke. River drew from her heart and was so gentle while working on me.My healed tattoos are absolutely beautiful and I get compliments whenever I go out in public.

My wife and I both got tattoos from River and were blown away at how she created something both unique and special to us. The entire experience was perfect for our first tattoos, making us feel so comfortable and included in the process. She is talented, thoughtful, and a pleasure to be around. The work is amazing and if you get a chance to work with her, I would highly advise you to do so!!! 10/10

If you’re looking for an all together incredible tattooing experience, look no further than River Dawn. From the moment you step inside her sacred space, you feel a sense of calm and positive energy. She is so incredibly talented and I felt as though I was being welcomed by a dear friend. She was able to take my vision and turn it into a stunning piece of art that I get to carry with me on my body forever. It was such a special and unique tattoo experience that I will never forget. I absolutely loved the ritual aspect she adds to the experience, and really makes it personal. Utterly magical. ❤️❤️❤️

After following River’s work online, I asked if she would do my first tattoo. It was such a beautiful experience for me, from the design process to the actual appointment. I recently went back for a much larger 2nd piece and she is worth the nearly 6 hour drive for me! Her designs are stunning and she has such a gift for turning my ideas into stunningly beautiful reality. She has a calming, but fun spirit and shows so much love, patience and care for her clients. You will love your experience with her and you will love your tattoo even more. Could not recommend River more highly!

100 stars! I simply cannot recommend her enough. A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to have River tattoo me with an absolutely stunning piece. Let me say off the bat that if you are looking for a strip-mall tattoo parlor (a la Panama City Beach tattoo experience) this is not for you - this is so much more than that. But, if you want someone who will work with you to create living art and someone who honors your body and space then THIS IS IT! Her shop is like stepping into another time and space where you can focus and breathe. I did not have my tattoo designed when I met her and I was a bit nervous about that. However, we sat together for about 90 minutes and designed something that honors my mother, partner, kids, and myself. This was my first sizable tattoo and the experience was amazing. We took breaks as I needed, she was inviting not intimidating, and every day I look at my body I am greeted with something that makes me feel beautiful, strong, and brings my mind to those I love. Thank you River for what you do in making the world more beautiful!

Let me start by saying that this is not your typical tattoo parlor experience. River creates a sacred ceremonial space and allows her art to truly be experienced in its entirety. I have been tattooed all over the country and this by far was the most pleasant experience I’ve had being tattooed. She truly brings in all the elements to the beautiful tattoo ritual and I couldn’t be happier. I highly recommend her if you are looking for something unique in design as well as delivery.

I turned 50 over the summer and wanted to get a tattoo that would signify what I wanted to embody and call into being in this next season of my life.I knew exactly who I wanted to work with for this sacred Tatoo experience - River of Spirit Alchemy Tattoo..Sacred means to set apart. My intention was to set apart a space & time to really be with myself during this experience and I wanted to share that space with someone who would align with my intention. River is exactly that person.Walking into her studio you immediately feel the love she has poured into the space she has created. You feel welcome and are able to explore, rest and receive. The lighting, the beautiful sacred objects, and the ceremony she guides you through as you create & honor your experience is so special.River holds space for you to navigate & journey through your thoughts, ideas and intentions as she softly guides you to the design that speaks to your heart.River is not only a beautiful space holder but an amazingly talented artist & creative. Her vision, designs and artistry are amazing.I met River years ago when she was doing henna. I told myself if she ever became a tattoo artist I wanted her to give me this sacred Tattoo. I’m so grateful years later it all came together.The beauty here is that I am stepping into and embodying the tattoo that was created that day. I believe Tattoos created with sacred intention are spirit guides. I’ll always have a beautiful connection with River through this experience. She brings light and radiance to the world through her tattoo offerings. I would highly highly recommend a Sacred Tattoo experience with her. ❤️

Receiving a tattoo by River was one of my favorite tattoo experiences to date (over a span of 13 years). I found her via instagram. She has a welcoming and loving attitude that I found immediate comfort in. Her intimate space is beautiful, yet clean and includes free parking. The design process was easy and I felt no pressure to move ahead without my complete confidence in what I wanted. Overall, River is a professional and caring artist that I cannot wait to book another tattoo with!

I have been blessed with three works of art from River Dawn. Each experience has been better than the last. Her studio is clean, homey, and safe. There is a energy in the space she has created that is inviting and healing.River is a conscience, perceptive, and talented artist.She gave me a rather large back piece, my first one on my back. A sensitive place to say the least. She watched my body language and would give certain spots a rest when I moved in a way that conveyed pain/discomfort she would let the area rest. A true gem to find in a tattoo artist. I have had some bad experiences in the past where other tattoo artist didnt practice any kind of body language awareness concerning their client making my experience far from enjoyable.Over all a great experience with a great person. When I find my next piece I will go back to Rivers studio without a doubt.

I was extremely nervous in the time leading up to my appointment even though this was not my first tattoo. It was, however, my first tattoo with River and I didnt know what to expect. As if by some kind of magic, my feelings of anxiety melted away the moment I entered Rivers space and saw her face. From that moment on I was at ease and everything fell into place. The piece she drew with me was everything I had hoped it would be and more. She is a true master of this craft and I will absolutely be seeing her again. Its worth the wait.

10/10, already working towards booking my next appointment! River was an amazing artist to work with. Her space is serene and calm, private and aesthetically pleasingly, clean and pretty. She has a very gentle hand when passing on her incredible artwork. She’s patient and kind, would absolutely recommend (and have been!) to folks looking for some beautiful custom artwork.

Most pleasurable, and magical tattoo experience of my life. River is so welcoming, comforting, and holds potent and beautiful space for deep healing and transformation. This is wayyyy more then your typical tattoo session. She is extremely talented and I will cherish this memory and tattoo forEVER.

River is one of the rare, gorgeous people who make you feel completely at ease in her hands. Not only is she an exceptional artist, she really pours her delicious energy into your tattoo design and work. Im honored to have a piece by her on my body and look forward to getting more.

I did not get a tattoo by River. I had a delivery for her but could not make it to her house. She met me in a big parking lot. She was soo nice and gave good vibes. Best of luck River! LOVE YOUR ART!

My body, brain, And spirit were transformed & Empowered by @spiritalchemytattoo 🌺🌌💫I am Still floating on cloud 9 over my new #fridaythe13thtattoo 🤗 I have been wanting to work with her for So Long & the opportunity presented itself so I Jumped-& Im So Eternally Grateful 🙌🏼 River channeled my energy & listened to what I wanted this tatt to represent-& she brought this piece of Magic to Life!!! I have gotten Hundreds of compliments on how Gorgeous her work is. Ive never been more proud to wear someone elses Soulwork on my body-if you are wanting a tattoo that speaks magic into your body & life; and want to work with an Incredible soul who will just Manifest everything you need-River is that. We did a ceremony before the session & connected on so many levels. I cant wait to go back!!!!

River is such an amazing artist. She works with you to design and create a beautiful and symbolic piece of art for your body. Her space is cozy, warm, and inviting, just like River, herself. I can’t recommend her highly enough.

Had a most AMAZING sacred tattoo experience. River infuses her work with love and consciously creates a safe, comfortable, beautiful space for people. Her work is absolutely stunning. Cant recommend highly enough!

Rivers work is amazing. I love that she took her time and didn’t make me feel pressured or rushed. The tattoo design was a collaborative experience that I felt like I was allowed to have say in. (Past experiences with other tattoo artists were not as open to my ideas) She cared enough to order food for us in the middle of our session because she said my blood sugar was getting low and she could tell. Which I appreciated so much because I felt so much better after eating. I got a sternum piece and when she had to be really steady with the lines she helped me breathe a certain way so I didn’t mess her up. Lol The design she came up with was everything I described and more and I am more than happy with it. I love that she made it a healing and spiritual and personal experience as well by letting me choose some crystals to put on the altar. I can tell she really cares about her clients her work and is very proud of what she does. I am over the moon and will return for more cool ink. Thanks river.

Kick off your shoes, wiggle your toes against the antique memories of a historic icon nestled into Downtown Asheville and breathe in lightness and calm as you step into the sacred space of Spirit Alchemy Tattoo. River always brings spiritual healing with each mindful, skillful, and gifted tattoo her artistry brings to life. Add the safe and warm space the energy of Spirit Alchemy lends and you’re immediately aware of how holistic tattooing can and should be. River, you are a gift to those of us lucky enough to be adorned with your creativity!

Body art had profound meaning to many people. River understands and makes it a part of her art to make a ceremony and ritual out of the entire process. The respect that she brings to her clients and to her art is deeply moving. I cant recommend her highly enough!

Each experience with River is more magical than the last, and Im on 3 visits so far with hopefully many more to come. I couldnt recommend her more. She has a way of making you feel at home and comforted while also stabbing you with a needle 😂 love her, 10/10 would recommend to anyone and everyone!

River is amazing artist, healer and wise womyn. If youre lucky enough to get on her books, your life will be deeply enrich and your soul expanded.

River is a special human being and she shares her art form in a very heartfelt way. If you want to connect to the ritual of receiving a tattoo she is your person.

My experience with River Dawn was magical.I recommend her to anyone looking to get a tattoo for the first time. It tools me 25 years to decide and she made the experience to be out of this world.

River is hands down one of the coolest people i’ve ever met. Took a basic idea and turned it into magic. My piece turned out even better than i imagined. I will definitely be getting more work done here in the future. Much love.-Anthony

River and I have been working for about three years on a complex, detailed project. Shes beyond gifted at feeling and hearing my visions and turning them into profound art.

Literally the best tattoo I’ve ever gotten with the most calming atmosphere to match. I can’t wait to schedule my next appointment already. If you’re looking for someone that’s personable and fun then this is the perfect studio for you.

Such a beautiful empowering experience for me today! From the moment I walked in the building to walking out to my car laughing with joy.Sitting here now candle gazing.. I can feel the burn under my bandage- as the burn from my new piece of forever art heals, my prayer is the burn will travel into my soul and spread as light to others~~thank you again for such a special memory💓 I will be back!!!

Such beautiful work! They were amazing and very professional. I felt so comfortable and welcomed throughout the whole experience. 10 out of 10, would do again!

Wonderful experience. Love my tattoo and already thinking about the next.

Its beautiful, and river is Amazing.