Artist Series 04:
Matt Gazzola
Matt Gazzola (@matt.gazzola) is a Toronto-based tattoo artist originally from St. Catharines, Ontario, whose background in illustration and graphic design led him into tattooing. Influenced by traditional tattooing and street art, he’s developed a unique style that constantly evolves as he revisits and reworks his past approaches. Without a formal apprenticeship, Matt built his career through connections in the art scene, with early support from spaces like Toutoune Gallery. When he’s not working on flash, he’s painting, sketching, or experimenting with watercolour and mixed media for fresh inspiration.
True artistry can often be seen as something that should be admired from a distance. At Livestock, we believe that true artistry is in fact lived, experienced and carried with you. Our Artist Series brings this philosophy to life. Featuring exclusive designs by an eclectic range of artists, the series showcases unique styles and perspectives in a medium that’s well known and loved. Each individual piece speaks to its artist’s personal vision and process. From impressive visuals to understated elegance, each design conveys the boundless possibilities of creative exploration. Versatile, visionary & vibrant, dive into a collection that delivers exclusive wearable canvasses.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Matt Gazzola and I’m from St Catharines, Ontario. I’ve been living in Toronto for the last 3 years.
How did you get into tattooing
Many years doing illustration work eventually led me to discover my passion for tattooing. Having friends as guinea pigs also helped!
What is life like for you beyond tattooing?
Tattooing takes up a lot of time, so if I’m not working on flash, I’m painting or sketching. I also enjoy a game of pool from time to time.
What challenges or highlights do you remember from your first years as a tattoo artist?
Not doing any formal apprenticeship, I was relying on a lot of my connections in the city through my years as a graphic artist. A lot of people gave me a chance that I don’t think I would have had would I have not already been in the art scene. Shoutout Toutoune Gallery for helping me out in the very beginning!
Is there a tattoo you’ve done that made you rethink your own style?
Periodically, I go through and look at my old style and think to myself: how I can revamp and come up with something even more unique and “me”.
Tell us about your artistic style
Heavily influenced by traditional tattooing and street art but like to put my own twist on everything I do
Has there been any specific pieces that have resonated with you?
No hands or faces if you’re not already 80% covered.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of becoming a tattoo artist?
Be yourself and grind – it’s a tough industry to get into and I don’t recommend it if you’re not thick skinned.
Visit your local shop or head to deadstock.ca to purchase the exclusive
Livestock Artist Series Tee, designed by Matt Gazzola.