Behind the Scenes: A Tattoo Artist's VIEW on TATTOO ConventionS.
Tattoo conventions are all the rage these days. What used to be small, chill meet-ups have blown up into massive events that everyone and their grandma wants to check out. Seriously, here in the UK and across Europe, you can't swing a cat without hitting some kind of tattoo convention. These places are buzzing with energy, packed with artists showing off their skills and folks just soaking it all in. It's like a giant party for anyone who's into the art of inking.
So, Why VISIT a Tattoo Convention?
Well, for starters, it's where the magic happens. Artists get to display their skills, and if you're looking to get a new piece this is the place to find your next tattoo genius. But it's way more than that. It's like the ultimate hangout for anyone who's into tattoos. You've got artists from all corners of the globe, each bringing their own flavour and style. It's the perfect spot to make new friends, get inspired, and maybe even pick up a trick or two.
Meet Your Heroes: Ever wanted to meet the artist behind your tattoo dreams? Conventions are your golden ticket. It's also a fab chance for artists to geek out over each other's work and maybe even plan some cool collab.
Culture Galore: It's like a big, vibrant showcase of tattoo culture. You'll see the latest trends, learn about new techniques, and get a front-row seat to the evolving world of tattoo art.
School's in Session: Even the pros can learn something new at these conventions. From the latest in ink tech to the newest hygiene practices, it's all about collaborating with each other and growing together.
It’s easier: With artists travelling to places beyond their own studio, it can make it much easier for clients to get a piece by an artists which is normally a huge effort to get too.
What TO EXPECT at a Tattoo Convention
Think of it as a carnival, but instead of rides, you've got tattoo machines buzzing. There's entertainment left and right—fire breathers, magicians, you name it. And the stalls? It's like Etsy came to life, with all sorts of tattoo merch, cool clothes, and even weirder stuff.
Showtime: Ever seen a tattoo competition? It's where the best of the best show off their work, and it's awesome. Whether it's a tiny piece or a full-back masterpiece, this is where artists shine picking up awards for a whole range of categories including best small colour tattoo, best large colour tattoo, best small black and grey tattoo, best large black and grey tattoo, best portrait tattoo, best traditional tattoo, best ornamental tattoo, best oriental tattoo, best healed tattoo, and of course the best of show tattoo!
CAN I GET TATTOOED THERE?
You bet! Some artists book spots for big 1 to 2 day pieces in advance, but there's always room for walk-ups. Flash designs are up for grabs, making it the perfect spot to get something unique from a top-notch artist.
How Much Will It Cost?
At these tattoo conventions, you might find that the prices are a tad higher, thanks to the extra effort and costs for artists to join in from far and wide. But, don't let that deter you! There's an amazing range of flash designs available, catering to all sorts of budgets, with prices starting from just £50 up to £500. Think of it as paying a bit extra for a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Getting inked by some of the world's most talented artists in such an electric atmosphere? It's absolutely worth every penny.
IS BLACK TAPESTRY AT ANY CONVENTIONS?
Our fearless leader Chris (@bintt) , has already had a busy convention calendar, popping up at events in Milano, Brighton, and the UK Tattoo Fest, where he smashed it winning 2nd place for a huge ornamental leg sleeve.
Looking at the rest of the year, @bintt and @uglyblacksheep are hitting up the the Tattoo Tea Party in Manchester and the UKTTA in Birmingham. @bintt is prepping for a huge chest collaboration with the ace @tommbirchtattoo, while @uglyblacksheep is offering some great walk up pieces. But wait there’s more, @bintt will be showing his face at major shows like the Big London Tattoo Show and the Belfast Titanic Tattoo Convention, giving lucky clients the opportunity to rock some of his amazing work.
So, wrapping this up, tattoo conventions are a blast. They're about art, meeting cool folks, and just having a great time. No matter if you're deep into the tattoo scene or just curious, there's something for everyone. It's a day out where you can grab some art, catch some shows, and maybe leave with a new tattoo. What's not to love?
