Tattoo Conventions: What to expect, and what to get
You’ve probably seen posts online, posters around town, maybe even a billboard and gotten curious. What goes on inside a tattoo convention? You’d probably imagine the sound of tattoo machines, people buzzing around or getting tattooed. But it more than just a gathering of people getting tattooed. You’re going to find a vibe of people enjoying and appreciating, tattoos, arts, and the various subcultures that tattoos bring together. Whether you have no tattoos, or a few, here’s what you can expect in a tattoo convention.
What Is a Tattoo Convention?
A tattoo convention is a multi-day event where you’ll find tattoo artists, tattoo collectors, vendors, and curious people all under one roof. It’s basically a big gathering with tattooing at the core of it all. A time and place where you can get tattooed by some of the best artists locally and internationally. See tattoo artists create high quality work, see what kind of tattoo designs and styles are trending, and meet like minded people in the community.
Most conventions will feature live tattooing, art exhibits, contests, seminars, merch booths, and even live music or entertainment. Whether it's a local event or a major international expo, there's something to see and do.
Why Are Tattoo Conventions So Popular?
Tattoo conventions have become really popular in the past decade because the mainstream shift in tattoo culture. While that is a major reason, there’s quite a few reasons why people come back specifically to conventions:
Access to Renowned Artists: Many well known tattoo artists are fully booked throughout months or even years in their studios. An expo could be a chance to meet and/or get tattooed by them in a place closer to you.
Variety Live Tattooing: Watching a tattoo getting made in real-time is special. Getting the opportunity to see many different artists work on tattoos at the same time, is something else. Being able to see the various styles, techniques, design and processes is inspiring for both collectors and artists alike.
Unique Designs: Tattoo artists often bring flash sheets to conventions. While most of these designs can be their regular flashes. There may be some convention-only designs or merchandise. This is the chance to get something special.
Learning Opportunities: While conventions can be a lot of fun, they can be opportunities for serious learning. Conventions often include workshops and seminars on tattoo techniques, hygiene, and maybe even tattoo history from renowned artists or figures. It’s a great learning experience for artists and even tattoo collectors.
Community Vibes: Whether you're tattooed or clean, conventions are fun time. The atmosphere and mood during these events are fun and exciting.
What should you expect at your first convention?
If you’re heading to a tattoo convention for the first time, there’s a lot to see and do. So here’s somethings you can expect to do, and keep in mind:
Admission Fees: Most conventions charge a day or weekend pass. Prices can vary, so check the event’s official site ahead of time.
Artists Booths: Artists set up stations where they tattoo live. Walk-ups are sometimes available, but most of the time they are booked in advance. It’s worth asking if they have slots available during the day, or the next day of the convention if you’re set on getting a tattoo.
Merch and Vendors: From tattoo supplies and aftercare, to apparel and art prints, the vendor booths are a great way to support business, artists and creators.
Tattoo Contests & Showcases: Conventions often host daily or weekend-long tattoo competitions. The categories can vary depending on the convention, although generally cover established styles and sizes. Such as best sleeve, or best realism. Tattoo showcases are another event, where people can showcase the quality and style of their tattoos.
Etiquette: While it is a fun and exciting atmosphere, do keep in mind to be respectful. Be polite, don’t touch people’s tattoos, don’t take pictures without permission. When approaching an artist’s booth be sure to ask, especially if they are in the middle of tattooing.
How to make the most of your convention.
Do Your Research: Check the artist lineup beforehand. If someone catches your eye, reach out early to book with them in advance.
Bring Cash: You might find that a lot of booths can be cash only. Plus, tipping your artist is always appreciated.
Dress Comfortably: You're going to be walking (and maybe sitting for hours if you're getting work done). Dress for comfort and easy access to the area being tattooed.
Hydrate and Eat: Especially important if you're planning to get tattooed. Conventions can be hectic, so don’t show up on an empty stomach.
Don’t Rush: Take time to walk the floor, talk to artists, and soak it all in. Even if you're not getting tattooed, it's an experience worth enjoying at your own pace.
Conclusion
Tattoo conventions are a great way to see, learn and experience tattooing over the course of a day or weekend. Whether you’re looking to get a piece from an artist you like, check out the works of the artist line-up, or even just check out vibe of the community. It’s a experience we highly recommend for anybody curious about tattoos.
We here at Golden Hours love conventions, with our artists planning to go to conventions internationally. To check if any of our artists are going for a convention check out our social media for announcements! If you’re keen on getting tattooed by us at our studio we’re happy to have you in! Send us a message through our contact page, or through our contact details below.
