Matt Cottrell
“To me art is a subjective term that has no boundaries and no limitations. I have always found comfort in the dark and strange.”
Where I Began
Born 1980 in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, I have always had an artistic eye throughout life and my many experiences. It wasn’t until 1995 when I started on my own path making body jewelry by hand. Traveling all around Canada and having the opportunity to meet many artists involved with body art has lead me into the path of pioneering what I do as an artist. Along the way I always had a fascination for literature, digital art, fashion and performance art. Not only as a creative outlet for myself but a career many told me along the way was impossible to achieve.
Now, 30 years later I am an accomplished body modification artist with a professional manner & dark aesthetic. I pride myself on my extensive knowledge of human anatomy, physiology and use many tools from the medical field. I have dedicated my life to my craft, passion for learning about different cultures, artistic abilities and unique vision. I feel empathic for every human I connect with. Voted as one of the best, most trustworthy piercers in North America by an online industry poll. I’ve been on a mission to create a legacy that lasts.
The Birth of Tribute Studios
30 years later with all the knowledge and experiences I’ve gained I decided to make Goderich, Ontario, my home; And this was the birth of tribute studios; in 2017. The Vision for Tribute was not only to have a business that was a safe and sterile environment for clients; but also bring like-minded people together in an art collective . A place that not only gives artist a safe place to express themselves, but encourage the talent that they hold that most people suppress. I hold strong in many aspects of expressions and I am always growing.
With hard work and perseverance, through unpredictable world viruses, Tribute has stood strong. Since the grand opening I’ve established a large loyal clientele base that has since grown.
My visions are inspired by hard truths, vivid nightmares and my own unique journeys through life.
I like to form a comfort in the unknown acknowledging that nothing is given but earned.
Forever living in the grey, bending our day to day and normality.