"TooTall"
I had a wonderful Saint Bernard named "TooTall." I took her name as my artist name.
Matthew S. Kennedy Artist BiographyMatthew S. Kennedy is a pioneering self-taught ceramic artist known for blending tattoo culture with fine art. As the first artist to use a tattoo machine to carve directly into ceramic surfaces, Matthew has redefined what’s possible in the world of memorial art. His work is deeply personal, often transforming grief, memory, and tribute into lasting handcrafted pieces that speak to the soul.
Through a combination of raw expression, precision, and emotional depth, Matthew’s ceramic memorial tiles and urns are more than artwork — they are living legacies. |
How Ceramic Tattoo Art Began
Back in 2006, I was watching a reality show called Miami Ink — something about the way they told stories through tattoos really stuck with me. A month later, I found myself at a tattoo convention in Pomona, California, where I spotted a tattoo machine for sale. I couldn’t stop wondering: Could I use that on ceramics?
I bought the machine, brought it home, and started experimenting. That one question turned into a passion — and the beginning of a completely new art form. Since then, I’ve been carving memories, symbols, and stories into ceramic surfaces using a tattoo machine, creating deeply personal works that merge ink culture with clay.
I bought the machine, brought it home, and started experimenting. That one question turned into a passion — and the beginning of a completely new art form. Since then, I’ve been carving memories, symbols, and stories into ceramic surfaces using a tattoo machine, creating deeply personal works that merge ink culture with clay.
Custom High End Memorials
In the heart of California, artist Matthew S. Kennedy has pioneered a powerful and original fusion of tattoo culture and ceramic craftsmanship. Using a tattoo machine as his carving tool, he etches intricate designs into clay, creating truly one-of-a-kind memorial urns and ceramic wall art.
Matthew’s work is deeply influenced by a wide range of artistic styles — from classic tattoo and graffiti art to contemporary urban design. The result is a bold, expressive aesthetic that resonates with those seeking something modern, meaningful, and deeply personal.
Through his website, Ceramic Tattoo Art, visitors can explore a growing collection of his creations and commission custom memorial pieces. Whether it’s incorporating a loved one’s favorite tattoo design, a symbolic image, or a theme that tells their story, each piece is made with care, intention, and soul.
If you're looking for a unique way to honor someone special, Matthew offers custom urns and tiles that celebrate life through artistic legacy.
Matthew’s work is deeply influenced by a wide range of artistic styles — from classic tattoo and graffiti art to contemporary urban design. The result is a bold, expressive aesthetic that resonates with those seeking something modern, meaningful, and deeply personal.
Through his website, Ceramic Tattoo Art, visitors can explore a growing collection of his creations and commission custom memorial pieces. Whether it’s incorporating a loved one’s favorite tattoo design, a symbolic image, or a theme that tells their story, each piece is made with care, intention, and soul.
If you're looking for a unique way to honor someone special, Matthew offers custom urns and tiles that celebrate life through artistic legacy.