Today we’d like to introduce you to Matt Burgdorf.
Matt, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started tattooing in 2009 right when I turned 18. I didn’t really have the best apprenticeship and was thrown to the wolves a lot sooner than I should have been. I started off working in shops that weren’t really the nicest and learned a lot of the wrongs things before the right ones. I tattooed in many of the suburbs around Houston, such as the Spring area, Katy, and Sugarland. With the guidance of some really great tattooers and friends, I learned what mattered most to me in tattooing and how to become the tattooer I am today. Last year in 2018, I decided it was time to centralize myself in Houston as my clientele grew. I got linked up with Homer from 713 and realized the shop was a great fit for not only me but my clients as well.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I feel like tattooing can never truly be a smooth road. My start in tattooing was one that I wouldn’t wish on anyone else, but I also am very proud of it. Learning how not to do things before figuring out the correct way, I feel really helped solidify my foundation in tattooing. Sometimes, it still amazes me that I came from working in dinky fly-by-night tattoo shops to traveling around the country.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am known for traditional tattooing. I am proud to carry the torch of all of the tattooers before me. I want to keep the flame of tattooing burning bright. My style is deeply rooted in classic Americana imagery. I don’t wish to only take from those who came before me, but also give back what I can. I think what may set me apart from others is my drive to continuously get better at my craft. I never settle for good enough.
What were you like growing up?
I was very much an introverted child. I kept to myself as much as I could, never doing team sports or the like. I grew up playing video games and skateboarding. I feel skateboarding really shaped the person I am very early on. I learned it was okay to be different and not go with the masses. I feel it also instilled the idea of personal growth and determination in me.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1533 Westheimer Rd.
Houston, Tx 77006 - Website: mattb.bigcartel.con
- Phone: 7135331239
- Email: m.burgdorf@hotmail.com
- Instagram: @mattburgdorf
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