Side note if you want to get tattooed at a convention, please note that artists (especially international artists or popular artists) book their clients for the convention in advance, sometimes it's booked months in advance (depending on when the artist announced that they will be at said convention) but if you follow them on social media, it can be a great opportunity to book a tattoo artist that is usually always booked or is too far away from you. That's what I did, my tattoo artist is from Italy.
Richmond Tattoo Convention, been going since 2017. Really diverse and fun. Great art and things you typically don't get to see . The amount of artists in your area, you never knew about, at least in VA is amazing. Love to be there.
I've been to one convention. It was the Toronto Tattoo convention last year which is pretty big. I was very new to the world of tattoos so I thought why not go and have an immersive experience. My daughter who was like 18 or 19 at the time came with me. We didn't get tattooed and I was impressed with the low key attitude they had. I expected to be pressured to get something done but that was not the case. I didn't watch the contests but I talked with a lot of folks and it was a great way for a couple newbies to meet folks who had local shops and actually make some connections. I am like you. I am loyal to my artist but if I wanted a tattoo in a style he doesn't do, I would look to some of the folks I now follow on Instagram because of that convention.
Yeah the contest was so damn boring. If they had some screens or something to shot off the tatttoos and maybe have the audience vote that would be so much better
Yes I have been to a tattoo convention 2 years ago in Baltimore I got a tattoo. it was overwhelming seeing all the booth and different things but I found someone I knew I wanted to support her
The contest was so long and boring, I didn’t even bother to watch it. I agree with the projector to include the art on display and actually showing what’s being judged. Healed v fresh is totally different. Thanks for the video!
As an award-winning magazine published tattoo artist myself that has even judged a few tattoo conventions, typically mostly of the awards go to healed tattoos only and the only tattoo awards that go to fresh tattoos are the tattoo of the day awards.
I'm going to my first one in just over a week here in Los Angeles. So looking forward to it. I already have a spot reserved with an artist, he has the designs, I know the cost. So Looking forward to it.
Hudson Valley Tattoo Convention in Poughkeepsie NJ in April is the BEST! I bring my 7 year old daughter and she loves seeing the art and tattoos. Very kid/family friendly with so much more than just tattoos. I can’t recommend it enough!!!!
Ran into you last year which was pretty cool. This was my third or fourth convention. I went to this one because I had an appointment with David Martinez and I wanted to meet him before my appointment. Super cool
A little late to the party here, but I just attended my first tattoo convention the other day in Cherry Hill. My initial intent of going was to find an artist that specialized in cover ups. Luckily through social media, the expo posted a lot of the artists that were going to be there, so I was actually able to find and artist and shot them a message on Instagram. It worked out in my favor because he didn't have anyone lined up for the convention to tattoo so I was able to get my chest piece started there, and it was at a lower rate than he normally charges. Can't wait to get it finished up in a couple weeks when I go to his shop.
Never been to a tattoo con but I'd like to soon. As far as that competition is concerned, yeah they should've had a different category for healed v. fresh. It's like holding a dance competition, you can't grade your newbies with the same standard as a seasoned dancer. If that makes sense.
One if my uncles used to run a tattoo supply company and he would take me to conventions all over when I was in high school. Always had a blast at those.
Just be careful what you get, the flash and the stencil might look great but the execution could be rushed and crumby. And don't do it on impulse. I'm having to deal with a rework/cover up for some stuff I got at a convention.
yeah i didnt even think about that. these artist are trying to work as quickly as possible to get to the next person to make the most amount of money. whitch will effect the outcome and overall look to some of the tattoos.
My fav part of going to cons is when the organisers gradually release artist names that will attend and finally being able to get ink from an artist you'd otherwise never be able to because of distance.
I'm going to be going to my 1st tattoo convention this year for my birthday. I'm not going to get a tattoo there, but I'm definitely going to go there for the experience and meet some other tattoo artists out there and see what they have to offer
Youre going to have a great time. not only is it awesome to see and meet a lot of artist, but it is also awesome to see all the other stuff the convention they have to offer. like the shows, art, and other stands that they have there.
Tattoo Conventions are FUN! got my first tattoo at a convention and my 2 biggest pieces at the same show years later. Booked an awesome artist 6 months in advanced because I knew he was coming back. Sat for 10 hours and went back for 3 more the next morning to get it finished. Won Best medium Tattoo at the Show!
I have been to one convention, the great British tattoo convention in London in 2022. I was fortunate enough to be asked to be a canvas by one of the artists I use who had decided to enter a competition, and given an extremely good offer to participate....£200 for a seven hour Alien themed tattoo on my calf. We didn't win, but I got a great tattoo!! What did I like? Well apart from.the price of the tattoo, just the experience and the buzz, and in the very brief breaks I was given (not many, as we were in a competition!!) Walking around and seeing some brilliant art and some of the vendors. Plus I managed to get a couple of bottles of bactine numbing spray from vendors, which you can't get in the UK. This has proven a godsend at times!! Downsides? Food and drink prices. Absolutely extortionate and I advise people now who ask to take their own. The venue Alexandra Palace is one of the highest points in London, it was an absolutely baking hot when we went and it has a glass roof. That and the amount of people attending made it uncomfortably warm, although that's to do with the venue, NOT the convention itself
hey bro i agree tattoo con contests are kinda bs, i do wanna say thank you tho one of your videos a while back on second skin really helped me, im now done with both my arms and on to my legs.
Unreal; how are there not any fully healed ones??? Also, could you make a video of how tattoo contests work at conventions? How they are scored, how to enter, how many can enter, do you have to wait a long time, rewards, etc. Thanks!
I’ve been to and volunteered at numerous tattoo conventions and I really enjoy them. I have a really good hoard of all the free stickers I collect every time I go. The thing with the competitions (from what I’m aware) is that tattoos can only be entered if they’ve been done at the convention. I agree that a ‘healed’ category should be included, but it’s usually the artist winning the award not the individual with the tattoo, so if someone enters without their artist there, then they can’t win the award/there’s no one to accept the award (as per terms of the competition).
One thing I have an issue with is contest. If u win I don’t think u should be able to enter the same one year after year. Same artist win with the same tattoo
I definitely agree that villain arts should have a projector or 2 to show the tattoos as they’re getting judged to the crowd. And they should also have separate healed and fresh contests.
Dang I’m sorry to hear about such a terrible experience Mike 😢 I’ve been to two tattoo conventions only been tattooed at it once never entered the contests before, you’re definitely right about not needing to get a tattoo to have fun! My girlfriend and I went to the one they have in Knoxville last year and didn’t get tattooed and we still had so much fun. Love the video @evolveink
I’ve been to two conventions in the UK (London and Bristol) and they are so much fun. I got a few tattoos at both 😊 I love it when you walk in and with all the tattoo machines running and buzzing it sounds like you’re walking into a swarm of bees 🐝 I totally agree with you that fresh and healed tattoos should have different categories. That just seems like common sense
I’ve only been to one Convention , it was really busy and loud. I didn’t get a tattoo, as all the tattooists were busy, but I did find an artist that did loads of my tiny filler tattoos which I love.
I actually got the first part of my left arm sleeve done at a convention, I had a blast and took 2nd place Large Color…it was a treat! The only one who could compete had to have gotten a piece down that day.
I know con culture varies a bit from place to place, but every convention here in Melbourne makes it very clear what's fresh and what's healed. Like healed/partially healed are only allowed in particular categories, and there's a clear delineation. Most categories require the tattoo to have been done at the convention for an even playing field. So yeah, I think that was just a very badly run competition.
Also think all category should have a cap on size. For exsample large black and gray should be like no more then 13 to 15 inches (exsample) so a full back cant enter that cuz forsure the full back is going to take it on the size .They should stick to their own category.
That sounds like a pretty shitty experience Mike :( In Slovenia we have a convention every year and so far, I've had a really good time each year. We have a contest as well, but it is organized in a better way, and you can actually go up to people and look at their tattoos, plus the photos are displayed on a big projector screen. There is also one prize that is voted specifically by the audience and that's really cool to me :)
I got tattooed toe to butt at a con here in Melbourne, Australia a week ago. It's my first time actually being tattooed at a convention, and I have to say, I really missed just being able to walk around and see everything. I think cons are incredible for getting tattooed by artists you don't normally have access to, but they're kind of more fun if you *don't* get a big piece.
You should checkout the allstarstattoo convention in Miami. It’s blows villainarts tattoo out of the water especially for it being its first year. Makes villain arts look like shit for a tattoo convention that’s been around all over the country.
Just got my third tattoo last night (first one March 2022, second one April 2023). I haven’t been to a tattoo con. I’d love to attend one. I am from the western Philly ‘burbs.
I've been to three conventions, and have been tattooed at all three. One of them was planned weeks in advance, the other two were just on a whim. The artist had time, I had money, and that was it. Lol. One of them was the Philly convention in 2013, and two in Atlanta including the recent Days of the Dead event
I went to a tattoo convention at 17 with two of my sisters, I had zero tattoos or piercings at the time. There was one place doing piercings and I walked out with a septum piercing. Getting to watch all the tattoos happening was so cool, and they had like circus performers there too which was cool as hell
I couldnt agree more. With the judges, i think it'd be cool if they got experts in that style. And with the same judges are staring at hundreds of tattoos I'm sure they get fatigued. Also Villain arts should get you to be a judge LOL
I'd love to go to a tattoo convention, of course Villain Arts looks awesome and Hell City as well, anything for what's happening in Boston since Boston is the closest place for me convention wise and I'm also wanting to be a client for artists who are in or have been in MA.
My tattoo artist had asked me to get tattooed during a convention. So I got tattooed at all 3 days of the Tattoo Convention in Amsterdam. It was a cool experience being tattooed in front of other people. Didn't bother me at all, had lovely conversations with people and so on. Sadly the organisation of this specific convention was an absolute sh*t show from broken down toilets, bad lighting, not enough food trucks as well as having people being able to take part at the contests with old/healed tattoos instead of tattoos being exclusively from the convention. For our case healed pieces that were bigger as they had much more sessions than the 3 days for the convention won over impressive new tattoos that were simply smaller. I would have loved a healed winner and a convention explusive winner as you mentioned. We also had people that needed to stand on chairs for judges and annoying moderation of the contests. But I'd always visit conventions again and I'd also get tattooed at it again. Just simply wouldn't recommend the Amsterdam con for anybody. Better go to Rotterdam or so.
I was just at the Paris convention a couple weeks ago and the competitions were great. They had huge projectors and multiple camera angles so everyone could see the tattoos from anywhere. Also, most conventions I go to the tattoo of the day or best of show are the only competitions fresh tattoos can enter. All the others contests have to be healed. Villain arts conventions are lame.
I got my first tattoo in October and went to my first tattoo convention shortly thereafter. I am from Richmond, VA and sadly I noticed similar issues as you did. I was so excited to attend and see everything but was left disappointed in the overall convention. Anyway, thank you for your great advice always. Watching your videos helped me heal my tattoo with great tips and instructions. :)
We go every year to what is called ' The Big North Tattoo Convention' here in the UK. 300 artists working over what is traditionally the last weekend of April. It is 60 miles away from us in a city called Newcastle Upon Tyne. We were actually at the very first one in 2017 and have been going every year since. Obviously Covid gave it a severe kick in the teeth and it was cancelled 2020 & 2021 but came back every bit as strong in 2022 and this April will be its 6th year. It is a great weekend away and as you say, talking to different artists is amazing. It is fantastic walking round and watching the progress of the bigger pieces as they are getting tattooed through the day or the full weekend. The Big North also has competitions for different tattoo styles but they are shown individually live on large screens around the stage area with a presenter who introduces the person with the tattoo and usually the artist. The art is critiqued by experienced artists, a short list is made up followed by a closer more in depth look at those tattoos then a winner chosen. The only stipulation is that the tattoo has to have been done at the show or by an artist attending and working on the day. There are multiple categories that allow new and old tattoos to enter but they also have a few categories for work done on the day. The artist can be awarded a trophy for work done on the day and is classed as best on the day in their category. The same happens on Sunday then there is an overall best in show competition for the best piece in each category over the weekend. It all looks above board, but you are never really sure if they are picking the best art or just picking the most well known artist. My artist and most of the guys that work with him have a booth together so that is always a great place to hang out. It is a great opportunity to talk to artists and find a tattoo style that suits your needs.
I’ve been to one convention, I got a nice & easy word on my back that I added detail to and then years later covered 😄 My (now-ex) girlfriend had my name put on her upper thigh 😂 🤷🏽♂️ Good time 👍🏽
Been to 2, one was mostly just ink master contestants, and all but 2 have been major dicks. I love walking around and checking stuff out tho, never been tattooed at one, my artist doesn't really do conventions and I only go to one guy, he's done all 8 of mine, all last year haha re: contests, I entered one and was DQ'd because 2 judges have seen mine as it went pretty viral, and the artist needed to be anonymous... same as your experience tho, no video/photos etc. Another one down at Mohegan Sun had giant screens and everyone got to see everything
I rarely even go to tattoo conventions, hell even any type of conventions because of issues with booking or signing or anything really. Plus, why do conventions attract more weirdos than average goers?
@EvolveINK Yeah, we booked the appointment, but the guy started tattooing someone else, so I had to go with another artist, who charged an extra. $100 For what I wanted, so now We just go walk around this year. i will actually get another tattoo. So we will see how this one goes
They should've orchestrated the contest better and maybe allow voters instead of "judges". The audience came all that way from everywhere, you'd expect some inclusive activity. I would've been pissshed.
I got my first tattoo just two days ago and every time I wash it (3 times a day) it loses some ink on the paper I use to dry it gently. Is this normal? I'm worried it's gonna make the tattoo more faded when healed
Yeahhh. Tat Olympics are an absolute waste of time. For all the homies who wanna be Indiana Jones and trophy hunt. It’s a rad experience and we all want a pat on the back to be able to say we won something for our efforts. However, when the person judging the piece is a sword swallower, it loses some validation in my eyes. Winning in Philly is a big deal because of the playing field, the favorites do seem to have and edge over most though. Go to Hell City and have a better time Shout out to Troy for putting on Villain Arts shows and giving artists a chance to showcase their work and making some money in the process
the tattoo competitions are just glorified self aggrandizement... it ruins the whole vibe... its a bunch of artists getting mad over stupid shit and hurt feelings and drama... all for a trophy and the right to call yourself "an award winning artist" and now that theres a convention somewhere every week it kinda cheapens the experience... most conventions seem like a rushed money grab and a bunch of peacocks being cool guys... now i will say conventions are awesome for a few things... 1 meeting new artists and networking..2 buying rad prints and artwork... i like going to conventions... but not tattooing or getting tattooed at them
I entered one of those tattoo contests and my artwork is really really good . I didn’t win which is fine but after the contest I was standing with my artist and one of the judges came up and said to my artist that’s your work? Oh I didn’t know and the other judge said to him oh I didn’t know either but I voted for it. After that I was turned off on those contests
I like to go to the conventions and get their shop stickers to put on to my bike but I haven’t been tattooed there yet, I might get a poppy wrapped in barbed wire with the words lest we forget on my back to honour my two grandfathers and all those who have fallen in combat
I I was wearing jeans and Matt wanted me to show off my leg sleeve so I only had ball shorts. I didn’t think about the shoes so I had to roll with it lol
@@zachnoe4503 Austin Tattoo Invitational is one of the really good ones out there. The quality of artists that go to that one is top tier, as it's an invite only.
As someone who has gone to a lot of tattoo conventions in the past couple years traveling with my artist, I totally get your point when it comes to healed vs fresh but to think that its reasonable to have that done each day would be insane. Last year in Philly I had gone into Medium Black and Grey with a tattoo that was 7 Months old. There was 142 Contestants in that damn line including some really good fresh tattoos. I took 1st place with that, but it took almost 2 hours from when I had gone into line to when they announced the category. Also with how big that convention and how long those lines take already, having them go to the middle and show them off would be extremely difficult and take so much longer as well. Other conventions I have gone to like New England Tattoo Expo or Tommy's Tattoo Convention (both in CT), they do a live feed video to 2 TVs. But that convention is also no where near as big as the Philly Convention which is one of the biggest in the US. I didn't put anything in for competition this year despite getting 4 new tattoos last year due to how long those take.
@@ChaseFrances my question was how its going in general....i know there is artists who do it for free, especially bigger designs, they design what they like and want to tattoo then pick someone an tattoo it on the convention for free, in europe there is a lot of cases like that, have no idea how its in the states
Wait shit I mean Sunday! Hahaha I was there that day too! It was just a bunch of standing around and hearing the host have anger tantrums after people couldn’t form a line but there was no guidance 😐😐 Finished up my anime sleeve with Benimaru from fire force!
Side note if you want to get tattooed at a convention, please note that artists (especially international artists or popular artists) book their clients for the convention in advance, sometimes it's booked months in advance (depending on when the artist announced that they will be at said convention) but if you follow them on social media, it can be a great opportunity to book a tattoo artist that is usually always booked or is too far away from you. That's what I did, my tattoo artist is from Italy.
Richmond Tattoo Convention, been going since 2017. Really diverse and fun. Great art and things you typically don't get to see . The amount of artists in your area, you never knew about, at least in VA is amazing. Love to be there.
I've been to one convention. It was the Toronto Tattoo convention last year which is pretty big. I was very new to the world of tattoos so I thought why not go and have an immersive experience. My daughter who was like 18 or 19 at the time came with me. We didn't get tattooed and I was impressed with the low key attitude they had. I expected to be pressured to get something done but that was not the case. I didn't watch the contests but I talked with a lot of folks and it was a great way for a couple newbies to meet folks who had local shops and actually make some connections. I am like you. I am loyal to my artist but if I wanted a tattoo in a style he doesn't do, I would look to some of the folks I now follow on Instagram because of that convention.
Yeah the contest was so damn boring. If they had some screens or something to shot off the tatttoos and maybe have the audience vote that would be so much better
Yes I have been to a tattoo convention 2 years ago in Baltimore I got a tattoo. it was overwhelming seeing all the booth and different things but I found someone I knew I wanted to support her
thats awesome. yeah....soooooo many booths at those conventions 🤣 i can see how it could feel overwhelming lol
The contest was so long and boring, I didn’t even bother to watch it. I agree with the projector to include the art on display and actually showing what’s being judged. Healed v fresh is totally different. Thanks for the video!
Thank you for watching! Happy we can all agree 😂
As an award-winning magazine published tattoo artist myself that has even judged a few tattoo conventions, typically mostly of the awards go to healed tattoos only and the only tattoo awards that go to fresh tattoos are the tattoo of the day awards.
I'm going to my first one in just over a week here in Los Angeles. So looking forward to it. I already have a spot reserved with an artist, he has the designs, I know the cost. So Looking forward to it.
Hudson Valley Tattoo Convention in Poughkeepsie NJ in April is the BEST! I bring my 7 year old daughter and she loves seeing the art and tattoos. Very kid/family friendly with so much more than just tattoos. I can’t recommend it enough!!!!
It was so great running into you! You are just the sweetest!
Ran into you last year which was pretty cool. This was my third or fourth convention. I went to this one because I had an appointment with David Martinez and I wanted to meet him before my appointment. Super cool
A little late to the party here, but I just attended my first tattoo convention the other day in Cherry Hill. My initial intent of going was to find an artist that specialized in cover ups. Luckily through social media, the expo posted a lot of the artists that were going to be there, so I was actually able to find and artist and shot them a message on Instagram. It worked out in my favor because he didn't have anyone lined up for the convention to tattoo so I was able to get my chest piece started there, and it was at a lower rate than he normally charges. Can't wait to get it finished up in a couple weeks when I go to his shop.
Never been to a tattoo con but I'd like to soon. As far as that competition is concerned, yeah they should've had a different category for healed v. fresh. It's like holding a dance competition, you can't grade your newbies with the same standard as a seasoned dancer. If that makes sense.
One if my uncles used to run a tattoo supply company and he would take me to conventions all over when I was in high school. Always had a blast at those.
yeah they are so fun to attend to. just not the contest part. you can skip that 😂🤣
GET TO THE POINT!!!!! I had to fast forward so I could know what your point was.
You must be new here. The evolve community likes these types of videos where it’s like we are having a conversation. 🤷♂️
Just be careful what you get, the flash and the stencil might look great but the execution could be rushed and crumby. And don't do it on impulse.
I'm having to deal with a rework/cover up for some stuff I got at a convention.
yeah i didnt even think about that. these artist are trying to work as quickly as possible to get to the next person to make the most amount of money. whitch will effect the outcome and overall look to some of the tattoos.
My fav part of going to cons is when the organisers gradually release artist names that will attend and finally being able to get ink from an artist you'd otherwise never be able to because of distance.
YOU ARE SO RIGHT ABOUT THAT THANKS FOR THE VIDEO
Yes so they was comparing heal against fresh tattoo in the same competition yea that’s crazy
Yeah that was the most insane thing I’ve ever witness
I'm going to be going to my 1st tattoo convention this year for my birthday. I'm not going to get a tattoo there, but I'm definitely going to go there for the experience and meet some other tattoo artists out there and see what they have to offer
Youre going to have a great time. not only is it awesome to see and meet a lot of artist, but it is also awesome to see all the other stuff the convention they have to offer. like the shows, art, and other stands that they have there.
Tattoo Conventions are FUN! got my first tattoo at a convention and my 2 biggest pieces at the same show years later. Booked an awesome artist 6 months in advanced because I knew he was coming back. Sat for 10 hours and went back for 3 more the next morning to get it finished. Won Best medium Tattoo at the Show!
It’s a good day when we get a new video from you sir 👏🤘🏻 inspired me to go to a convention in a month!
I have been to one convention, the great British tattoo convention in London in 2022. I was fortunate enough to be asked to be a canvas by one of the artists I use who had decided to enter a competition, and given an extremely good offer to participate....£200 for a seven hour Alien themed tattoo on my calf. We didn't win, but I got a great tattoo!!
What did I like? Well apart from.the price of the tattoo, just the experience and the buzz, and in the very brief breaks I was given (not many, as we were in a competition!!) Walking around and seeing some brilliant art and some of the vendors.
Plus I managed to get a couple of bottles of bactine numbing spray from vendors, which you can't get in the UK. This has proven a godsend at times!!
Downsides? Food and drink prices. Absolutely extortionate and I advise people now who ask to take their own.
The venue Alexandra Palace is one of the highest points in London, it was an absolutely baking hot when we went and it has a glass roof. That and the amount of people attending made it uncomfortably warm, although that's to do with the venue, NOT the convention itself
hey bro i agree tattoo con contests are kinda bs, i do wanna say thank you tho one of your videos a while back on second skin really helped me, im now done with both my arms and on to my legs.
Yes don’t think they ever did healed vs fresh but they do look at them quick
Unreal; how are there not any fully healed ones??? Also, could you make a video of how tattoo contests work at conventions? How they are scored, how to enter, how many can enter, do you have to wait a long time, rewards, etc. Thanks!
From the conventions I’ve been at they had some pretty simple but solid rule : only tattoos that are done at the convention could participate.
See that seems fair. They did have a category for best in show, but there was a bunch of other categories that just did not make sense
12:10 artists agree there should be a fully healed category, those people aren’t always even there with the artist
It only makes sense. Tattoos lose 10-20% of pigment when they fully heal. Darker tattoos always look better lol
They also should have photos that are equally lighted and judge off that. Non biased and theyre able to go back and forth
I’ve been to and volunteered at numerous tattoo conventions and I really enjoy them. I have a really good hoard of all the free stickers I collect every time I go.
The thing with the competitions (from what I’m aware) is that tattoos can only be entered if they’ve been done at the convention. I agree that a ‘healed’ category should be included, but it’s usually the artist winning the award not the individual with the tattoo, so if someone enters without their artist there, then they can’t win the award/there’s no one to accept the award (as per terms of the competition).
One thing I have an issue with is contest. If u win I don’t think u should be able to enter the same one year after year. Same artist win with the same tattoo
I definitely agree that villain arts should have a projector or 2 to show the tattoos as they’re getting judged to the crowd.
And they should also have separate healed and fresh contests.
Dang I’m sorry to hear about such a terrible experience Mike 😢 I’ve been to two tattoo conventions only been tattooed at it once never entered the contests before, you’re definitely right about not needing to get a tattoo to have fun! My girlfriend and I went to the one they have in Knoxville last year and didn’t get tattooed and we still had so much fun. Love the video @evolveink
I’ve been to two conventions in the UK (London and Bristol) and they are so much fun. I got a few tattoos at both 😊 I love it when you walk in and with all the tattoo machines running and buzzing it sounds like you’re walking into a swarm of bees 🐝 I totally agree with you that fresh and healed tattoos should have different categories. That just seems like common sense
I’ve only been to one Convention , it was really busy and loud. I didn’t get a tattoo, as all the tattooists were busy, but I did find an artist that did loads of my tiny filler tattoos which I love.
I actually got the first part of my left arm sleeve done at a convention, I had a blast and took 2nd place Large Color…it was a treat! The only one who could compete had to have gotten a piece down that day.
I know con culture varies a bit from place to place, but every convention here in Melbourne makes it very clear what's fresh and what's healed. Like healed/partially healed are only allowed in particular categories, and there's a clear delineation. Most categories require the tattoo to have been done at the convention for an even playing field. So yeah, I think that was just a very badly run competition.
Also think all category should have a cap on size. For exsample large black and gray should be like no more then 13 to 15 inches (exsample) so a full back cant enter that cuz forsure the full back is going to take it on the size .They should stick to their own category.
That sounds like a pretty shitty experience Mike :( In Slovenia we have a convention every year and so far, I've had a really good time each year. We have a contest as well, but it is organized in a better way, and you can actually go up to people and look at their tattoos, plus the photos are displayed on a big projector screen. There is also one prize that is voted specifically by the audience and that's really cool to me :)
I got tattooed toe to butt at a con here in Melbourne, Australia a week ago. It's my first time actually being tattooed at a convention, and I have to say, I really missed just being able to walk around and see everything. I think cons are incredible for getting tattooed by artists you don't normally have access to, but they're kind of more fun if you *don't* get a big piece.
You should checkout the allstarstattoo convention in Miami. It’s blows villainarts tattoo out of the water especially for it being its first year. Makes villain arts look like shit for a tattoo convention that’s been around all over the country.
Just got my third tattoo last night (first one March 2022, second one April 2023). I haven’t been to a tattoo con. I’d love to attend one. I am from the western Philly ‘burbs.
I went to my first one in Huntington WV on Saturday. I got three tattoos, was there all day, might have went a bit overboard but it was worth it
I've been to three conventions, and have been tattooed at all three. One of them was planned weeks in advance, the other two were just on a whim. The artist had time, I had money, and that was it. Lol. One of them was the Philly convention in 2013, and two in Atlanta including the recent Days of the Dead event
I went to a tattoo convention at 17 with two of my sisters, I had zero tattoos or piercings at the time. There was one place doing piercings and I walked out with a septum piercing. Getting to watch all the tattoos happening was so cool, and they had like circus performers there too which was cool as hell
Haven't been to one yet but will soon. Its just an excuse to get out of the house since my partner and I work from home.
I couldnt agree more. With the judges, i think it'd be cool if they got experts in that style. And with the same judges are staring at hundreds of tattoos I'm sure they get fatigued.
Also Villain arts should get you to be a judge LOL
Lets go! yeah i am painfully honest with how i judge tattoos. i am not trying to be mean, just trying to help people get better tattoos.
@@EvolveINK Exactly! as always it was a pleasure seeing you at the convention 🙏🏼
I'd love to go to a tattoo convention, of course Villain Arts looks awesome and Hell City as well, anything for what's happening in Boston since Boston is the closest place for me convention wise and I'm also wanting to be a client for artists who are in or have been in MA.
My tattoo artist had asked me to get tattooed during a convention. So I got tattooed at all 3 days of the Tattoo Convention in Amsterdam. It was a cool experience being tattooed in front of other people. Didn't bother me at all, had lovely conversations with people and so on.
Sadly the organisation of this specific convention was an absolute sh*t show from broken down toilets, bad lighting, not enough food trucks as well as having people being able to take part at the contests with old/healed tattoos instead of tattoos being exclusively from the convention. For our case healed pieces that were bigger as they had much more sessions than the 3 days for the convention won over impressive new tattoos that were simply smaller. I would have loved a healed winner and a convention explusive winner as you mentioned.
We also had people that needed to stand on chairs for judges and annoying moderation of the contests.
But I'd always visit conventions again and I'd also get tattooed at it again. Just simply wouldn't recommend the Amsterdam con for anybody. Better go to Rotterdam or so.
I was just at the Paris convention a couple weeks ago and the competitions were great. They had huge projectors and multiple camera angles so everyone could see the tattoos from anywhere.
Also, most conventions I go to the tattoo of the day or best of show are the only competitions fresh tattoos can enter. All the others contests have to be healed.
Villain arts conventions are lame.
I got my first tattoo in October and went to my first tattoo convention shortly thereafter. I am from Richmond, VA and sadly I noticed similar issues as you did. I was so excited to attend and see everything but was left disappointed in the overall convention. Anyway, thank you for your great advice always. Watching your videos helped me heal my tattoo with great tips and instructions. :)
We go every year to what is called ' The Big North Tattoo Convention' here in the UK. 300 artists working over what is traditionally the last weekend of April. It is 60 miles away from us in a city called Newcastle Upon Tyne. We were actually at the very first one in 2017 and have been going every year since. Obviously Covid gave it a severe kick in the teeth and it was cancelled 2020 &
2021 but came back every bit as strong in 2022 and this April will be its 6th year. It is a great weekend away and as you say, talking to different artists is amazing. It is fantastic walking round and watching the progress of the bigger pieces as they are getting tattooed through the day or the full weekend. The Big North also has competitions for different tattoo styles but they are shown individually live on large screens around the stage area with a presenter who introduces the person with the tattoo and usually the artist. The art is critiqued by experienced artists, a short list is made up followed by a closer more in depth look at those tattoos then a winner chosen. The only stipulation is that the tattoo has to have been done at the show or by an artist attending and working on the day. There are multiple categories that allow new and old tattoos to enter but they also have a few categories for work done on the day. The artist can be awarded a trophy for work done on the day and is classed as best on the day in their category. The same happens on Sunday then there is an overall best in show competition for the best piece in each category over the weekend. It all looks above board, but you are never really sure if they are picking the best art or just picking the most well known artist. My artist and most of the guys that work with him have a booth together so that is always a great place to hang out. It is a great opportunity to talk to artists and find a tattoo style that suits your needs.
It was the same deal at Villian Arts when they came through Cincinnati in 2023, pretty disappointing. They dint seem to be prepared at all.
I’ve been to one convention, I got a nice & easy word on my back that I added detail to and then years later covered 😄 My (now-ex) girlfriend had my name put on her upper thigh 😂 🤷🏽♂️ Good time 👍🏽
Ohhhhhhh boy 😂 rule #1 of getting tattoos. Never get a name
I've been to 2 conventions. Got my 2nd tatt at one. But the 2nd one was BEYOND crazy. We could barely move there was so many people!!
What about folks like Black Tape Project and Fred Kyrel's Shibari?
They make a ton of money from the competitions alone, all that matters is that people enter.
Absolutely. I think it was like $25 per entry lol
Beard looks sick bro
Been to 2, one was mostly just ink master contestants, and all but 2 have been major dicks. I love walking around and checking stuff out tho, never been tattooed at one, my artist doesn't really do conventions and I only go to one guy, he's done all 8 of mine, all last year haha
re: contests, I entered one and was DQ'd because 2 judges have seen mine as it went pretty viral, and the artist needed to be anonymous... same as your experience tho, no video/photos etc. Another one down at Mohegan Sun had giant screens and everyone got to see everything
I’ve never been to a tattoo convention. My college schedule practically banned me from going to fun events.
I rarely even go to tattoo conventions, hell even any type of conventions because of issues with booking or signing or anything really. Plus, why do conventions attract more weirdos than average goers?
You should make a video of how to make a chest piece
I got you. ruclips.net/video/5Ads_r7j20o/видео.htmlsi=RcDnfA_deznVYuKR
Usually the judges give their friends the prize
The tattoo contest should be like the live season finales of ink master
I actually got my first tattoo at a convention. Got my second one five days later.
I never been a tattoo convention before. After watching this video. I don't think that the contest was right at all.
It really wasn’t fun lol. The contest part was ass, the rest of the convention is really fum
Yea, me and my wife have been going to the same one since 2019..( Cleveland ohio), and yes, I got a tattoo
that pretty cool. did you book a appointment ahead of time or did you find a artist while you were at the convention?
@EvolveINK Yeah, we booked the appointment, but the guy started tattooing someone else, so I had to go with another artist, who charged an extra. $100 For what I wanted, so now We just go walk around this year. i will actually get another tattoo. So we will see how this one goes
They should've orchestrated the contest better and maybe allow voters instead of "judges". The audience came all that way from everywhere, you'd expect some inclusive activity. I would've been pissshed.
I got my first tattoo just two days ago and every time I wash it (3 times a day) it loses some ink on the paper I use to dry it gently. Is this normal? I'm worried it's gonna make the tattoo more faded when healed
Don't you need to make an appointment with the artist?
Most yes, there is a lot of artist that have availability that do walk ups.
I always want to go to one.
Yeahhh. Tat Olympics are an absolute waste of time. For all the homies who wanna be Indiana Jones and trophy hunt. It’s a rad experience and we all want a pat on the back to be able to say we won something for our efforts. However, when the person judging the piece is a sword swallower, it loses some validation in my eyes. Winning in Philly is a big deal because of the playing field, the favorites do seem to have and edge over most though. Go to Hell City and have a better time
Shout out to Troy for putting on Villain Arts shows and giving artists a chance to showcase their work and making some money in the process
I never been to tattoo conversation
the tattoo competitions are just glorified self aggrandizement... it ruins the whole vibe... its a bunch of artists getting mad over stupid shit and hurt feelings and drama... all for a trophy and the right to call yourself "an award winning artist" and now that theres a convention somewhere every week it kinda cheapens the experience... most conventions seem like a rushed money grab and a bunch of peacocks being cool guys... now i will say conventions are awesome for a few things... 1 meeting new artists and networking..2 buying rad prints and artwork... i like going to conventions... but not tattooing or getting tattooed at them
I entered one of those tattoo contests and my artwork is really really good . I didn’t win which is fine but after the contest I was standing with my artist and one of the judges came up and said to my artist that’s your work? Oh I didn’t know and the other judge said to him oh I didn’t know either but I voted for it.
After that I was turned off on those contests
The judges are under qualified any one could be a judge
I like to go to the conventions and get their shop stickers to put on to my bike but I haven’t been tattooed there yet, I might get a poppy wrapped in barbed wire with the words lest we forget on my back to honour my two grandfathers and all those who have fallen in combat
I agree
thanks for watching :)
I think you were a reall winnnnner 😉
I didn’t even know it was a thing 🤪
A lot of people don’t lol but that’s what I’m here for. To educate :)
I didn’t know tattoo conventions are a thing.
A lot of people don’t know that they are a thing. They are fun lol
Did you get ur tattoos judged?
I was going to but I got there too late to put in my submissions. Lol
Not a fashion channel,but the chelsea boots with the shorts…common bro. This aint it.
I I was wearing jeans and Matt wanted me to show off my leg sleeve so I only had ball shorts. I didn’t think about the shoes so I had to roll with it lol
@@EvolveINK it was just a really funny sight 😂 but i understand bro
I’ve only been to one convention and I’m just dying to go to another one
Where are you from? Try getting to the next one!
@@EvolveINK I’m from Texas I believe the star of Texas tattoo convention is the most famous one
@@zachnoe4503 Austin Tattoo Invitational is one of the really good ones out there. The quality of artists that go to that one is top tier, as it's an invite only.
That's really piss poor to not show the tatts in competition.
Especially when you have an audience of paying customers that are watching the show.. like come on
I go to the Chicago one every year got tattooed by flaks32
As someone who has gone to a lot of tattoo conventions in the past couple years traveling with my artist, I totally get your point when it comes to healed vs fresh but to think that its reasonable to have that done each day would be insane. Last year in Philly I had gone into Medium Black and Grey with a tattoo that was 7 Months old. There was 142 Contestants in that damn line including some really good fresh tattoos. I took 1st place with that, but it took almost 2 hours from when I had gone into line to when they announced the category. Also with how big that convention and how long those lines take already, having them go to the middle and show them off would be extremely difficult and take so much longer as well. Other conventions I have gone to like New England Tattoo Expo or Tommy's Tattoo Convention (both in CT), they do a live feed video to 2 TVs. But that convention is also no where near as big as the Philly Convention which is one of the biggest in the US. I didn't put anything in for competition this year despite getting 4 new tattoos last year due to how long those take.
Are you a Phillies fan? Go Braves ChopOn...............
I agree! Same with car shows! Never driven vs daily driver!
Are artist tattooing for free at the conventions?
No lol you still have to pay the artist based on their own rates
@@ChaseFrances my question was how its going in general....i know there is artists who do it for free, especially bigger designs, they design what they like and want to tattoo then pick someone an tattoo it on the convention for free, in europe there is a lot of cases like that, have no idea how its in the states
Agreed
Hahahhahahahahaha man I was there on Saturday WASTE OF TIME!!!!! We could have finished my tattoo faster but no we waited for NOTHING
Dude it was so bad. I was there on Sunday lol. What did you end up getting done there?
Wait shit I mean Sunday! Hahaha I was there that day too!
It was just a bunch of standing around and hearing the host have anger tantrums after people couldn’t form a line but there was no guidance 😐😐
Finished up my anime sleeve with Benimaru from fire force!
Wtf is this video even about 😂
lol someone's mad because their mid ass sleeve didn't win a trophy at a meaningless convention
So excited getting my 3rd tattoo it’s a tribute to my favorite wrestlers dad Dusty
Dusty Rhodes?!
@@EvolveINK yeah don’t tell me you’re a wrestling fan Mike?