Matt Beckerich stands as one of New York's most respected tattoo artists, with over 25 years of professional experience and international recognition for his modern interpretation of traditional Japanese tattooing. Currently co-owner of Fountainhead NY, he has built a distinguished career through traditional apprenticeship, global travel, and high-profile media appearances including Netflix's "Tattoo Redo." His artistic mastery combines classical Japanese irezumi techniques with contemporary sensibilities, earning him a devoted international clientele and industry acclaim.
Born in Sayville, Long Island, Beckerich discovered his calling early, beginning his traditional apprenticeship at age 16 under Angelo Miller at the legendary Inksmith & Rogers in North Carolina. By 17, he was tattooing full-time professionally—a remarkably young start that speaks to both his natural talent and dedication to the craft. This traditional foundation under respected mentors like Angelo Miller and Mike Wilson provided the rigorous technical training that would define his career.
Career evolution through three distinct phases
Beckerich's professional journey spans three clear phases, each building upon the last. From 1999 to 2005, he established himself during his formative years in North Carolina while traveling extensively between Miami, New York, and Hawaii. This period of geographic diversity exposed him to varied tattoo cultures and clienteles, broadening his artistic perspective beyond his traditional training.
The middle phase (2005-2018) marked his return to New York, where he joined the opening crew at Kings Avenue Tattoo. During these 13 years based out of Long Island and SoHo Manhattan, Beckerich traveled extensively worldwide, tattooing across Europe, The Americas, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. This international exposure refined his understanding of global tattoo traditions while establishing his reputation on the convention circuit.
His current phase began in 2019 with the co-founding of Fountainhead NY in Huntington Village, Long Island, partnering with Phil Szlosek. Located at 324 Main Street, the studio represents Beckerich's vision of combining high-end custom tattooing with curated retail goods, creating what clients describe as feeling "more like an art gallery than a typical tattoo shop."
Artistic mastery in Japanese traditional techniques
Beckerich has earned recognition as "NYC's Premier Japanese Tattoo Artist" through his modern interpretation of classical irezumi style. His specialization encompasses the full pantheon of Japanese traditional imagery—dragons, koi fish, chrysanthemums, geishas, samurai, and mythical creatures—rendered with bold lines, vibrant colors, and meticulous attention to traditional composition principles.
His artistic approach emphasizes collaboration and customization. Rather than working from predetermined designs, Beckerich spends consultation time sketching freehand directly on clients' skin, ensuring proper flow and composition tailored to individual body shapes and personal stories. This method reflects his deep understanding that Japanese tattooing is not merely decorative but should "breathe with movement and emotion."
While Japanese traditional remains his signature style, Beckerich also excels in Traditional American tattooing, demonstrating the versatility that comes from his comprehensive traditional training. His work typically involves large-scale pieces. This includes full sleeves, expansive back pieces, and intricate multi-session projects that showcase the full scope of his technical mastery.
Recognition through media and publishing achievements
Beckerich's industry standing received major validation through his featured role on Netflix's "Tattoo Redo," which premiered July 28, 2021. As one of five resident artists alongside Tommy Montoya, Twig Sparks, Miryam Lumpini, and Rose Hardy, he appeared in six episodes transforming botched tattoos into cover-up masterpieces. The show, hosted by comedian Jessimae Peluso and produced by Chris Nunez, reached Netflix's Top 10 and introduced Beckerich's work to a global streaming audience.
Beyond television, Beckerich has made significant contributions to tattoo literature through his co-founding of Neversleep Publishing in 2016. The company's flagship publication, "Tattooing's Guide to Symbolism - Cor Mysterium Vol. 1," features artwork and commentary from 200 prominent tattoo artists worldwide, with a forward by legendary tattoo artist Ed Hardy. This limited edition hardcover has become "a staple in any collector's library" and represents the first volume in a planned multi-volume series on tattoo symbolism.
His convention appearances span the international circuit, with documented participation in major events including the London Tattoo Convention, Pagoda City Tattoo Fest, and guest spots from Oslo, Norway to North Carolina. At these events, sources note that "enthusiasts line up to watch him create magic with his tattoo machine."
Current operations and industry influence
Today, Beckerich operates from his co-owned Fountainhead NY studio, which has become a destination for clients traveling internationally to receive his work. The studio emphasizes both artistic excellence and comfort, featuring "warm lighting, artwork adorning the walls, and clean, modern layout" that exceeds industry hygiene and safety standards.
His online presence reflects his professional status, with over 86,000 Instagram followers (@mattbeckerich) and active profiles across multiple platforms. The studio's Instagram (@fountainheadnewyork) showcases ongoing work from Beckerich and his collaborators, maintaining engagement with the global tattoo community.
Beyond tattooing, Beckerich pursues parallel artistic interests including architectural design, fine art, and fashion projects, demonstrating the breadth of creative vision that informs his tattoo work.
Client experience and professional reputation
Client testimonials consistently emphasize Beckerich's professionalism, down-to-earth personality, and genuine passion for the craft. Reviews highlight his thorough consultation process, ensuring clients feel fully informed and comfortable before beginning work. His booking process typically requires advance scheduling due to high demand, with appointments managed through the studio's website, email (fountainheadny@gmail.com), or phone (631-469-2725).
The geographical reach of his clientele reflects his international reputation—clients regularly travel from across the country and internationally to receive tattoos from Beckerich. This global draw speaks to both his technical mastery and the unique artistic vision he brings to traditional Japanese tattooing.
Matt Beckerich represents the evolution of traditional tattooing through the lens of contemporary artistry and professionalism. His 25-year career demonstrates how rigorous traditional training, combined with global experience and artistic innovation, can elevate tattooing to its highest levels. From his teenage apprenticeship under respected masters to his current status as a Netflix-featured artist and successful studio owner, Beckerich has consistently pushed the boundaries of what Japanese traditional tattooing can achieve while maintaining deep respect for its cultural and technical foundations.
His influence extends beyond individual tattoos to industry education through publishing, mentorship through his studio environment, and cultural bridge-building through his media presence. For clients seeking the highest level of Japanese traditional tattooing, and for the industry seeking examples of artistic excellence combined with professional integrity, Matt Beckerich continues to set the standard.
