Matthew Adams: A Journey of Artistic Evolution and Tattoo Mastery

From a childhood immersed in color and creativity to a career defined by dynamic artistry and tattooing, Matthew Adams has consistently pushed the boundaries of his craft. With roots in both fine arts and graphic design, Adams has crafted a unique path that spans various mediums and styles, ultimately finding his calling in the world of tattooing.

Adams’ artistic journey began in his formative years, inspired by his mother, an accomplished oil painter who taught him the fundamentals of color mixing. This early exposure to the arts laid the foundation for his creative pursuits. Adams went on to study art and graphic design in college, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for visual storytelling.

In 1998, Adams embarked on a new chapter of his artistic career—tattooing. Starting in the basement of a friend’s apartment with the support of his brother, Adams quickly immersed himself in this intricate craft. The early years were challenging, working in less-than-ideal conditions and navigating the complexities of the tattooing world. However, these experiences only fueled his determination to master his craft.

Adams’ breakthrough came in 2005 when he joined the esteemed team at Sacred Tattoo NYC. This opportunity allowed him to refine his techniques and collaborate with some of the most creative minds in the industry. His tenure at Sacred Tattoo was instrumental in shaping his artistic voice and expanding his repertoire.

Adams’ love for New York City profoundly influences his work. The vibrant energy and diverse imagery of the city serve as a constant source of inspiration. Beyond tattooing, Adams channels his creativity into painting, often using materials sourced directly from the urban environment. Notably, he incorporates “wet paint” signs from the subway into his artwork, creating pieces that are deeply connected to the city’s pulse.

Adams’ career has taken him coast-to-coast, from the bustling streets of NYC to the artistic hubs of San Francisco and San Diego. His work at Red Rocket Tattoo and subsequent travels have allowed him to collaborate with artists nationwide, further enriching his artistic perspective.

Most recently, Adams has been making appointments at Dice Tattoo in Midtown Manhattan, continuing to expand his client base and explore new creative opportunities. His dedication to his craft and constant pursuit of artistic growth remain at the core of his practice.

On July 12, 2024, Adams reached a significant milestone in his career by participating in the art show at Cannavita Art Gallery. The event, curated by Ovono Agency and co-curated by Dara, and hosted by Katrina Chiovon, was a resounding success. The evening drew art lovers, critics, and collectors from across the region, creating an electric atmosphere. Attendees were captivated by the diverse array of artworks on display, solidifying Adams' reputation as a versatile and innovative artist.

One of Adams’ most intriguing projects involves repurposing graffiti paint peels from overworked sections of street art. By arranging these paint slabs into collage forms, he creates unique, textural compositions that capture the raw essence of urban expression. This experimental approach showcases Adams’ ability to blend traditional techniques with unconventional materials, resulting in truly original works of art. He describes this project as something wild, taking peeled-off slabs of paint and arranging them into collage forms. More details about this project can be found on his Instagram page @_scratch_the_surface.

As Matthew Adams continues to evolve as an artist and tattooist, his vision remains clear: to achieve global recognition and leave an indelible mark on the world of art and tattooing. With a commitment to constant innovation and a deep connection to his urban roots, Adams’ journey is one of relentless creativity and passion.

Be sure to follow Matthew Adams on his social platforms and stay tuned for upcoming shows.

@mattytat

www.mattytat.com