Interview with Adelaide Tattoo Artist Matt Telford: Master of Flow & Japanese Tattooing
At Ink Nurse, we love celebrating the incredible artists behind the ink. Today we chat with Matt Telford, a master of large-scale Japanese tattoo compositions and a resident artist at Fallen Muse Tattoo, Adelaide.
From honouring traditional Irezumi roots to creating modern, intentional flow across the body, Matt’s approach to tattooing is as thoughtful as it is striking.
The InterviewQ1. Your work feels deeply intentional, how do you approach storytelling in large-scale Japanese compositions?
Matt:
My work definitely is very intentional! I enjoy working with clients to find the right feeling or emotion we want to evoke with their project. Gentle, aggressive, strong symbolism – all of these elements are taken into consideration during my process.
Matt:
I’m not sure if it’s right for me to offer an opinion on traditional Japanese tattooing as a white Australian tattooer. It’s not my native culture and while I am deeply passionate about research and honouring those fundamentals, I try to let those things provide a context for my own creative lens.
The most important thing to me is creating something that’s genuinely inspired by and pays homage to the traditional Japanese roots I adore so much.
Q3. When you’re designing a full back or bodysuit, how do you plan the flow across the body? What comes first: theme, form, or feel?Matt:
I definitely consider flow first and foremost. Flowing with the body will always result in a complimentary tattoo and it’s the thing I value most! Everything else just falls into place on a vibe.
Matt:
The key has been studying fundamentals and classic tenets of Irezumi, but through a lens of play. I’m not trying to be a strict traditionalist – I don’t think that role is mine to play.
Studying contemporary artists also helps me create something recognisable but with a unique twist.
Q5. What’s your setup like when you’re in deep focus? Any rituals, soundtracks, or conditions that get you in the zone?Matt:
I work in an open plan studio, so no strict rituals when tattooing. But when I’m designing and drawing, I try to create a flow state. Usually, I start early in the morning with vocal-free music (anything from lofi to instrumental prog metal) and coloured soft lighting.
Matt:
It always comes back to fundamentals: flow, designing to fill space with meaning, technical proficiency, client connection, and research.
If I had to name one, it would be backgrounds. Drawing directly onto the body to set tone, contrast, and flow feels like the purest part of any project.
Q7. What non-tattoo sources (literature, history, design, philosophy) inspire your work or mindset?Matt:
Trauma hahaha. Honestly, life experiences push you further than anything else. They fuel growth and create a personal journey that feeds back into my art.
Matt:
I’ve been developing my painting skills. It’s been a slow but rewarding process, and I’m excited to keep pushing forward.
Most underrated artist/book you always go back to?
Secrets of Irezumi by Horifune – excellent insights into Japanese symbolism.
What makes a tattoo timeless, in your opinion?
Contrast, flow, impact, and classic symbology.
One word to describe how you feel mid-piece?
Anxiety (with a laugh).
Matt Telford continues to set himself apart with his dedication to flow, storytelling, and respect for tradition. His work at Fallen Muse Tattoo is a blend of Japanese roots and modern creativity — a testament to his authenticity and passion.
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