Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabe Motta
Hi Gabe, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m Gabe, an immigrant tattoo artist with a decade of ink under my belt next January. At 28, I call Los Angeles my home, where I live with my wife and our three dogs. Grateful doesn’t even begin to describe how I feel about the journey that’s brought me this far.
I was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. My tattoo journey began at 17 as an apprentice, sneaking tattoos on my underage friends just for kicks. I never imagined it could become more than a hobby, but here I am, a decade later, and I’m only just getting started. Hopefully I’ll be able keep pushing my craft until i’m fully out.
I made the leap to Los Angeles in February 2020, and imma tell you, it was as brutal as you’d imagine. The pandemic hit just weeks after I arrived, no family, no friends, and barely enough to cover rent. But I fought my way out of that mess. Fast forward to today, and I’m proud to be working at Site of Grace Tattoo in West Hollywood, surrounded by some of the most talented artists in the game.
Looking ahead, I’ve got plans to guest spot around the country in 2025. So if I roll through your city, let’s link up and get some ink.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like every tattoo artist, I bounced around shops in my early years, but nothing compares to the grind I faced during the pandemic. I had just moved to a new country, trying to build my life from the ground up, when everything came crashing down. Locked inside for months, not working, with no friends or family safety net, that was the real test. Thank god I made it alive.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m primarily a tattoo artist, though I also paint and draw in various mediums. But when it comes down to it, skin is where I thrive. I specialize in a style called Neotraditional, a modern revival of traditional tattooing, infused with fresh techniques. It’s a fusion of influences, but for me, the Art Nouveau roots is what really speak to the human form. The organic lines and bold, colorful illustrations sync perfectly with the body, creating the best connection between art and canvas.
I’m most proud of my large-scale pieces: chest and back pieces, sleeves, and full-body suits I’m currently building. My goal is to push into bigger and more ambitious projects and eventually be recognized for them. These kinds of tattoos take serious dedication, though, which is why I’m always looking to connect with people ready for the journey.
What sets me apart? It’s my sharp linework and vibrant colors. I’ve always been drawn to color in tattoos, and once I started, I realized why many artists shy away from it, it’s an entirely new world to master, and for the last decade, I’ve been doing just that.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I’m not one for keeping secrets, but what tends to surprise people is that I’m only 28.
Pricing:
- I charge per session and piece, so it does depend on what and where we are doing. But my full day session for larger pieces, that require multiple sessions, is $850.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabe.motta/
- Other: https://tinyurl.com/4fup9f6f
