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Meet Matt Phillips: One of Fort Collins’ Favorite Tattoo Artists Behind the Needle
- Aimee Heckel
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
From the time he was six years old, Matt Phillips knew he wanted to be a tattoo artist.
Growing up in Northern Colorado, he was in awe of his dad’s biker friend, who was covered in tattoos. It sparked something in him that never went away. As a child, he began calling his drawings “tattoos.” That early spark evolved into a lifelong passion for art, including graffiti, sketching, painting, and college-level art classes — all of which laid the foundation for a successful career.
Today, Matt is one of the best tattoo artists in Fort Collins, well-known and respected for his traditional-style tattoos, welcoming personality, and role as a mentor and shop manager at Solana Tattoo Company.
“I just love everything about tattooing. From sketching a design to putting it on skin, even building machines or painting flash — it all excites me. Coming into the shop every day, seeing the projects lined up, and hanging out with everyone here, it’s my escape from reality.” - Matt Phillips
At Solana, Matt brings more than a decade of tattooing experience, a passion for traditional art, and a reputation as someone who’s not only an incredible tattoo artist but also a true leader who helps other artists grow. He’s friends with just about everyone in the tattoo community, both artists and clients, and his chair has become a place where people feel welcomed, inspired, and at ease.
The Artist’s Journey
Matt’s journey into tattooing was anything but straightforward. After multiple apprenticeships, years of persistence, and countless hours honing his art, he landed his place in the tattoo world. Since then, he has built a solid career in Northern Colorado, becoming deeply rooted in the community where he grew up.
He draws inspiration from legendary tattoo artists like Aaron Coleman, Richard Stell, and Bob Roberts, whose work has stood the test of time. But what motivates Matt most is the constant challenge.
“Tattooing is definitely the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” Matt says. “I’m really critical of myself. If I don’t like how I’ve drawn something, I’ll redraw it as many times as it takes until I get it right. That’s how I was taught as an apprentice, and it stuck with me.”
As shop manager, Matt has also embraced a leadership role.
“You’re dealing with different personalities and trying to build trust. But I love it. I get to help guide the artists here. I love to be relied on.” - Matt Phillips
Artistic Style and Specialties
Matt’s specialty is American traditional tattooing. With bold outlines, clean shading, and timeless imagery, it’s a style he believes is unmatched in longevity.
“Traditional tattoos have proven over and over again to last the best,” he explains. “They might look simple, but that’s what makes them so hard. Every line has to be perfect. Nice clean lines, color blending. That challenge is what I love about it.”
While traditional is his favorite, Matt also enjoys soft black-and-grey work and animal realism. His inspiration often comes from classic flash designs, old-school tattoo traditions, and the artists who came before him. He keeps their tradition alive by painting all of his flash sheets by hand, using watercolors or liquid acrylics.
“Sure, you can do it quicker on an iPad, but you can tell the difference,” Matt says. “Hand-painted flash carries the tradition of tattooing forward.”
What It’s Like to Get Inked by Matt
Getting tattooed by Matt is more than just getting ink; it’s about feeling heard and respected throughout the process. He knows that stepping into a tattoo shop can feel intimidating, especially when clients see someone covered in tattoos like himself.
“People look at me and sometimes they’re just scared,” he says with a laugh. “I make a point to be friendly, approachable, and professional. I want people to feel comfortable.”
Matt takes his time in consultations, listening carefully and asking clients to show reference images if they’re struggling to describe what they want.
“I don’t get frustrated if someone has a hard time explaining. I just sit with them, wait, and try to get on their level,” he says.
“And I always say thanks, because they’re the reason I get to do what I love.”
More About Matt
Current favorite food spot close to the shop in Fort Collins: Mediterranean Gyros at the Petra Grill. In a hurry? Subway.
Music vibes while tattooing: Punk and ska, especially The Specials and The Aggrolites. He also loves Amigo the Devil and Murder by Death.
Loves painting, drawing, and spending time with his kids, family, and friends. He always paints flash art by hand, keeping tattoo traditions alive through watercolor and liquid acrylic.
Graduated from Berthoud High School and proud to call Northern Colorado home.
First tattoo was at 16, a tag for his graffiti crew (now long since covered up).
His station at Solana is a revolving door of friends and fellow artists stopping by to hang out or share their latest work.
Solana: Feels Like Home
Over the years, Matt has worked in nine Northern Colorado tattoo shops, giving him a unique perspective on the industry and the changes it has undergone. At Solana, he says he’s found a home that embodies everything he loves about tattooing: artistry, professionalism, and motivation.
“The shop is super art-driven. Everyone here is excited about what they’re creating, whether it’s tattooing, painting, or digital art. The energy is amazing. It makes you want to push yourself to be better.” - Matt
Matt also appreciates the clients who walk through Solana’s doors.
“It’s really cool seeing the diversity of people who come in, including people you wouldn’t expect to see in a tattoo shop,” he says. “They’re excited, they care about the art, and that makes my job even better.”
Book a Tattoo With Matt, One of Fort Collins' Favorite Tattoo Artists
Matt isn’t just another guy who does tattoos; he’s one of the best tattoo artists in Fort Collins, respected for his traditional-style expertise, his leadership, and his ability to make clients feel at home. His work speaks for itself, but it’s his personality and dedication to both his craft and his community that make him stand out.
Check out his portfolio at Solana Tattoo Company, book a consultation, and see why Matt is one of Fort Collins’ favorite tattoo artists.
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