An Interview With Tattoo Artist Matt Roe.

Despite a demanding schedule, artist and tattooist Matt Roe graciously dedicated an hour to discuss his life and 15-year career at his studio, located at 56 Pembroke Road, a mere 15-minute walk from Kensington Station. Stepping into The Studio, one is immediately struck by the compelling display of Matt’s ink-crafted artwork and sculptures, each a modern interpretation of ancient antiquities. Classical busts, adorned with his signature black and grey tattoos, stand as silent sentinels, exuding a timeless elegance.

Moving into the office area, the atmosphere shifts, revealing another facet of Matt’s personality. Santa Cruz skateboards adorn the walls, and UFC gloves are within reach, a stark contrast to the classical art previously observed. A custom ‘Matt Roe Studio’ light illuminates the space, providing a vibrant backdrop. With coffee in hand, we settled in, ready to delve into his unique creative journey.

Interview Highlights:

Artistic Background:

Matt’s artistic journey began with fashion design and art foundation courses at the University for Creative Arts, where he discovered his passion for the human form and the interplay between clothing and art. Influenced by brands like Ed Hardy and Von Dutch, he transitioned into tattooing. His early exposure to computer-aided design became instrumental in his artistic process.

First Tattoo Experience and Client Experience:

Matt’s first tattoo experience involved tattooing himself, a practice he does not recommend to aspiring artists. At The Studio, the emphasis is on creating a comfortable and welcoming environment. “It’s the experience, not just the tattoo,” Matt states. The studio’s ambiance, complete with music (Post Malone being a frequent choice), snacks, and water, ensures clients feel relaxed and open to collaborating on designs.

Evolution of Tattoo Trends and Style:

While “small bitey patchwork” tattoos remain popular, Matt has observed a growing demand for larger pieces, such as leg sleeves. Over his 15-year career, he has transitioned from color work to his signature black and grey realism, a style that has seen a significant increase in popularity. He also noted the shift from walk-in studios to appointment-based practices, with most artists now proficient in diverse styles.

Challenges in the Tattoo Industry:

Matt identifies the increasing emphasis on social media presence over the quality of artwork as a significant challenge. He stresses the importance of recognizing artists as multifaceted business owners. He also acknowledges the generational apprehension towards new artists and encourages embracing innovation.

Advice for Aspiring Tattoo Artists:

“Practice like crazy,” Matt advises. He emphasizes the importance of mastering fundamental skills like drawing straight lines and perfect circles through repetition. He also highlights the dedication required, as tattooing becomes an integral part of one’s life.

Misconceptions about Tattoo Artists:

Matt aims to dispel the misconception that all tattoo artists are the same. He stresses the uniqueness of each artist and the importance of clients researching and selecting an artist whose style aligns with their vision.

Impact of Tattoos on Clients:

Matt acknowledges the emotional significance of tattoos, often marking pivotal moments in clients’ lives. He finds immense satisfaction in seeing clients emotionally moved by his work.

Future Aspirations:

Matt envisions building his brand through commissioned art pieces, expanding beyond tattoos into artwork and sculptures. He aspires to collaborate with high-end brands like Gucci or streetwear brands like Palace, ultimately creating a high-end lifestyle brand. He also hopes to engage in podcast discussions.

Conclusion:

Matt Roe exudes a calm energy and a deep passion for his craft. This summary represents only the first part of our journey