Tattoo Conventions
From LoveToKnow Tattoos
If you really love tattoo culture and want to show off your ink (and maybe get some more), the many tattoo conventions held throughout the United States and the rest of the world are great places to enjoy a tattoo lifestyle.
What is a Tattoo Convention?
Tattoo conventions originally started as a way for artists to display their work, as well as a place for people in the tattoo and body modification worlds to get together and talk about methods, technique, and tools of the trade. These conventions can range from small in size, covering perhaps just a few shops from a specific geographic area, to quite large. They can be held in convention centers, arenas, hotels and other gathering places, and these tattoo gatherings can take place over just a few hours or up to several days.
At the Convention
Most tattoo conventions have several different aspects that make the convention interesting to visit. A tattoo artist or shop will register in order to "display" on the showroom floor. This will allow the artist to show off their his or her work, as well as ink people on the spot. Many conventions offer a great way to see the work of several different artists and then pick the one you like best. Be aware that some tattooists will only take a certain number of pre-booked customers, while others will not do very large tattoos at a convention. Additionally, tattoo artists may not be able to bring their comfortable chairs or work spaces with them to the convention, so be aware that your larger tattoo may mean spending time getting inked on a folding chair.
Advantages to a Convention Tattoo
One of the biggest advantages to getting a tattoo at a convention may be that you can get work done by an artist who may not be located in your area. Tattooists often come from all over the country to work at the larger tattoo conventions, and this can mean that you may be able to get work from an artist based in San Francisco at your New York convention. Tattoo artists that specialize in a form of tattoo, such as full body tattoos or Chinese tattoos may be easier to find at a convention.
Convention Contests
At most conventions for tattoos, no matter what size, contests will be held and prizes awarded to tattoo artists in several categories. Typically, a tattoo artist will ask someone they've inked to come with and "show off" their tattoo for the judges. Categories can range from "Best Black Tattoo" to "Best Full Body Tattoo" depending on the convention.
Popular Conventions
Some of the most popular tattoo conventions are:
- The New York City Tattoo Convention
- The Boston Tattoo Convention
- The AMJAM Tattoo Expo
- The Berlin (Germany) Tattoo Convention
At the larger conventions, you can expect to see thousands of people looking to get inked or show off what they already have. Be prepared to book your room in these areas ahead of time, because as tats gain in popularity, these conventions have expanded. Also be aware that there is often a charge for entrance, usually between $10 and $20.
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