MEETING MATT GONE AT THE 2016 KIEV TATTOO CONVENTION

Some moments in a tattoo artist's journey stay with you for years.

This photo was taken with Matt Gone, one of the most recognizable figures in the tattoo world. His signature checkerboard body suit has made him instantly recognizable and a unique part of tattoo history.

"The Checkerboard Man" is the nickname Matt earned because his head and face are almost entirely covered in alternating black and white squares.

Meeting people like this reminds you how diverse tattoo culture really is. Every artist, collector, and enthusiast has a different story to tell, and every journey through tattooing is unique.

Looking back at old photos like this reminds me how much the tattoo industry has changed and how much I've grown along with it.

Sometimes it's nice to pause, look back, and appreciate the people and moments that became part of your own tattoo story.

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