Amy Matthias

• How long have you been tattooing, and what got you started in the industry?

I have been tattooing for about two and a half years. I have always been interested in tattoos, the industry, etc. I had my first tattoo planned out since I was 14 years old and got it the day I turned 18. From then on I just fell in love with everything surrounding tattoos. The art, the environment, the community; they all entrance me. 

• What inspired you to become a tattoo artist?

I was always an artist by nature. I have been drawing and painting since I can remember. I was born with a heart defect that kept me from playing any sports as a kid, so I clung to art. I have always considered getting into tattooing. Ironically, while at a tattoo appointment, my husband and tattoo artist asked why I don’t tattoo. Since I already had a background in art and loved the art of tattooing so much. I gave them simple reasons, but in the end they talked me into buying my first machine. I fell in love with tattooing even more. I credit a lot of my career to those two.

• Do you prefer working on pieces in color or black and grey?

I love to work with black and grey, however I do want to get into color pieces in the future.

• Are there any tattoo styles or themes you particularly enjoy working on?

I really like to do American traditional style tattoos, or just anything that’s a little different. The weird stuff is lots of fun to me!

• What do you enjoy most about being a tattoo artist?

I absolutely love giving people art that they can wear on their bodies forever. 

• What's a hobby of yours outside of tattooing?

Outside of tattooing, I like to paint on canvas. Abstract stuff, characters from movies/shows, and pour painting!