In a world of ever-evolving tattoo styles, Hudson remains dedicated to the classics. Specializing in bold lines, vibrant colors, and a timeless aesthetic, he brings each tattoo to life, captivating those who appreciate the enduring beauty of traditional tattoo art.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
My name is Hudson Mateus, known as Hudtattoos. I’m a Brazilian tattoo artist from Belo Horizonte. I’ve been tattooing for 12 years and I’m a truly lover of traditional tattoos.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
Since I was a child I always loved art in its various versions. I’ve always been passionate about drawing and transforming that into tattoos felt like discovering my true direction.
At what point in your life, you became a professional tattoo artist?
I started tattooing when I was 21. At that point, I already had many designs and ideas that I liked to explore on paper. The beginning was hard and difficult, because I lived in a small town. Making the decision to move to the capital of my state and invest in good equipment was essential for me to learn and evolve as a tattoo artist. It was like feeling at home.
Where are you based?
I was born and raised in Brazil, in Minas Gerais. I currently live in Los Angeles, California.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in your country these days?
Brazil is definitely a country that loves tattoos. I know amazing tattoo artists who are on an high level of work and that makes me very proud! We have great conventions in Brazil and South America that should be visited more. One of the things I appreciate most is the opportunity to share experiences and be inspired by the talent of Brazilian artists in their different styles.
How would you define your tattoo style?
My style and my heart belongs to traditional tattoos. It’s the style I’ve always loved and feel totally comfortable and inspired doing.
What’s the main source of inspiration for your tattoos?
I feel totally inspired by old 50’s flash, classic movies and art. I love creating tattoos with modern themes in the traditional concept as well.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2024?
These days, we have excellent tattoo artists and works all over the world. I think it’s important to always try to create, evolve and be inspired by the work you admire. Perhaps the biggest challenge for many tattoo artists is the difficulty of balancing everything and staying active online and creating content.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
It a pleasure to get a tattoo and see the people happiness. Feeling that you created an art that caused this happiness in someone is indescribable.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I’ve always gone to conventions mostly just to admire the artists.
I participated in a tattoo convention in Brazil/ São Paulo 2023 and won 2nd place in my category. And I participated in a contest in the USA with a healed tattoo in Pomona/CA and won 1nd place in the traditional category. I was very happy to see my work recognized. I want to participate in conventions in the USA as soon as I am able. Look forward to it!
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
I think it’s important for artists to have contact with other works, other styles and different techniques. Appreciating and learning from other artists is enriching.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Have love and respect for the history of tattooing. Study and draw a lot, understand your limits at each stage of the process and don’t be afraid to try something new! Good results come with time and persistence. As well as defining your style and improving it.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
I have all my respect for the first tattoo artists. Especially those who did traditional tattoos. At a time when it was very difficult to access or didn’t exist specific tattoo materials, they created a style that has survived for decades.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
I am grateful for all the friends I have made, everything I have achieved, every client who is now my friend, my friends who supported me when I was starting out. I think the connections and friendships I have made are invaluable.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
I usually paint in my free time. Testing new techniques and applications, finishing with different textures. I really love doing it.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
Now I’m living in the USA, I really want to be able to build my career here soon. Make friends and connecting with others artists.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Currently, I have two incredible brands that support me and believe in my future and my work. AlloeTattoo, which is an incredible aftercare brand, and Inkin Tattoo Supply, which is a brand of perfect cartridges and machines.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
Follow and Check out my work at @hudtattoos. Thank you for all the support and love always!
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