Today it is not enough to follow the latest events, exhibitions, theater, music and movies to stay up-to-date. Look around and you'll see that tattoos are everywhere: new youtube heroes, co-workers and casual passersby.
The tattoo has become a full-fledged part of current culture. It's shocking, it's striking in its execution, and it's being argued about. But the debate is not about the question of whether or not to tattoo on the human body. It's about what palette to choose, what style is in fashion, what tool to use for drawing - modern machines or handpoke?
At the International Moscow Tattoo Convention you will not only get answers to these questions, but also learn about the latest technologies, important names and trends, get acquainted with the tattoo culture as such. During its ten-year existence MMTC has grown into a full-fledged festival with international headliners and plenty of activities: master-classes, exhibitions, extreme show and music.
Foreign guests
The most anticipated guest of the festival is. Russ Abbott (Russ Abbott/ Ink & Dagger Tattoo). A major star in the world of tattooing (he did his first job in 1998). Russ is known for his colorful drawings, his combinations of different cultures and eras, and his flawless execution technique. As a part of his first (!) visit to Russia, Abbott will hold a lecture "Prototyping the Tattoo. At the stand of TattooSmart company it will be possible to watch the master's work in real time. Get your stories ready!
The next star contestant is Spaniard Alejandro Prada. (Alejandro Prada). His intricately composed, manic-precise graphic works look like an organic continuation of the clients' bodies. Prada will not only hold a lecture "Geometry and Dotwork | Geometry and Dotwork", but he will also demonstrate himself in the work at the booth of BlackPrada tattoo studio.
Korean delegation of four people headed by a tattoo contest judge YUUZ Show class and prove that the fashion in Korea is still strong and did not arise out of nothing. England's honor and the title of trendsetter will be defended by Iris Lys (Iris Lys) and Mors (Mors). The studio Inkonik will take on the whole of Brazil. From Australia will come two masters working in the oriental style - Benny Bones (Benny Bones) and Jordy Cole (Geordie Cole).
A blog about tattoos and tattoo culture
Tattoo conventions are events for tattoo artists and all people in one way or another associated with tattoo culture. They have become one of the major conventions in the industrythat are being held more than ever before.
If you've ever wanted to attend one, it's held in almost every major city every year. It's a great opportunity to immerse yourself in tattoo culture - see artists at work, watch a show, meet people, or attend a few workshops if you're interested.
However, for those who are unfamiliar with the world of tattooing and haven't attended a tattoo convention before, they can be quite intimidating.
Because of this, we decided to tell you what it is so you can better understand the ins and outs of this event. In this article, we'll discuss everything from how to get a tattoo at a convention to the amazing shows such conventions have to offer.
What is a tattoo convention?
Tattoo conventions are events that allow hundreds of artists, collectors and spectators to participate in a two- to three-day eventwhere tattoo artists from around the world perform live tattoos.
They are held in many countries, and many of your favorite artisans attend certain gatherings each year. The date of the tattoo conventions is announced long before they begin. Shows, workshops and other entertainment are scheduled in advance and may be held on different days.
Tattoo Convention in London.
The festival usually runs from Friday through Sunday, and there are different events happening each day, so if you're interested in something specific, be sure to check the convention schedule and find out if you need to make a reservation or pay to get where you want to go.
Tickets
All conventions charge tattoo artists admission fee and box rental fees. They come in different sizes and cost different amounts, but you can save money by sharing a booth with other artists. For example, with colleagues from your salon where you work together. Often tattoo studios rent a large box with 3-4 masters working in it.
Assembling boxes for masters at the tattoo convention in Milan 2021.
Tattoo convention in Milan, February 2021.
Everyone else will need to buy a ticket. It can be for one or all days of the festival. You will be able to enter the grounds and move around freely, see the masters in progress or, if you want, get a tattoo. But if you want to buy something or attend any workshops, you may have to pay extra on top.
What are the conventions that attract people?
Conventions are great for those who want to get a new tattoo, because at the festival you can meet professional tattoo artists from all over the world..
For example, you can go to this convention and get a tattoo from a master from the UK, New Zealand or America. For many people, this event is is the only opportunity to get the work of their favorite tattoo master without going to his home country.
Most of the best tattoo artists in the world do not work in the same salon all year round. They travel and attend tattoo conventions. So this is the perfect place to get to know the best of the best. You can see portfolios, talk to the masters about their craft and watch their work process.
You can also see the final awards ceremony, where tattoo artists and their clients showcase their best work and win prizes in various categories, such as Best Color Tattoo or Best Sleeve. Or maybe you'll be lucky enough to own the winning artwork!
How do I get a tattoo at a convention?
While you're there, get yourself a tattoo! This is an opportunity to get a tattoo from an overseas master that you might not otherwise be able to get to. While some artists will allow you to get a tattoo immediately at the event, you will only have to wait your turn, others for a session will have to make an appointment in advance..
Master Maurizio Gobbo with his client at the Milan 2021 Tattoo Convention.
Check the convention list months in advance, as the best masters make reservations quickly and usually require a deposit. Most tattoo artists only spend time on one client per day.
Many artists have a minimum cost for conventions and/or pre-drawn sketches.
What does this mean? It means that if you want to book a session with a reputable artist, you should not haggle. If you come up with a certain idea and start asking for it you will be rejected.. Why? Because tattoo artists don't usually attend tattoo conventions to get cheap tattoos.
This event gives artists a chance to talk about themselves, showcase their work, and chat with colleagues and clients. It doesn't make sense for a serious artist to get a cheap, little tattoo.
Before you attend a convention, take a look at the list of artists in attendance and check out their portfolios. If you see some that you really like, email the artist before the event itselfto find out if they are interested in working with you and what the terms are. This will save you from misunderstandings and awkward moments.
Tattoos at conventions (usually) cost more than tattoos in a salon.
It's true. For the same reasons stated above, many masters charge either more per hour or charge a flat rate for the work. So if price is your main priority when choosing, the convention is not the best place to get a tattoo. If you're more interested in quality., convention is a tattoo lover's dream!
Why are conventions attractive to tattoo artists?
Conventions are also good for tattoo artists. They allow artists to interact with others in their industry, which in some cases leads to Collaborative work and new experiences.. Local artisans have the opportunity to learn from the best of the best in person - many conventions offer master classes for tattoo artists.
Over the past few years, collaboration between artists has become very popular at conventions. Because these events bring together artists from around the world, many tattoo artists use this as an opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from other countries.
For example, one of the largest tattoo collaboration groups is The Rat Pack.who worked together at the London Tattoo Convention, Empire State Tattoo Expo and Golden State Tattoo Expo. The Rat Pack consists of Sam Barber and Jack Connolly from the UK, Steve Butcher from New Zealand, Yomiko Moreno from Venezuela, Dave Paulo from Portugal, Benjamin Laukis from Australia and sometimes Paul Booth from the USA.
Etiquette of the event
Working at a tattoo convention is very different from working in a tattoo parlor because there are thousands of people walking around and hundreds of artists working side by side. If you are going to attend a convention as a client or a spectator, remember of the master's workspace and respect his or her personal space.
Despite the large crowds, most tattoo artists will be happy to answer any questions you have about their work or signing up for a session.
Tattoo Convention in London.
That famous master you saw on Instagram will be busy and won't always be able to chat with you.
If you're a big fan of tattoo art like we are, walking around the room can leave you confused with fear. When approaching a working master, remember - they are working.
You can say hello or exchange a few phrases, depending on the tattoo artist, but it's not a good way to try to get him to tattoo you at an event or in the future. It's best if you wait until the master is available or take his contacts to get in touch on social media.
Free space.
One of the most interesting things about conventions is that sometimes famous tattoo artists have a space available for an appointment! People cancel sessions at the last minute and sometimes the masters, who usually have everything booked, get an open spot.
If you want to take it, you need to consider the price and the type of tattoo you will get. Keep in mind the points mentioned above and keep in mind that a tattoo can be more expensivethan in the showroom. Try not to haggle.
It is also possible that you may have to settle for a small and/or pre-drawn tattoo. Many artists bring in small flush tattoos that they have drawn, and this is what they are willing to tattoo. Not all artists, of course, but some.
If you want a large tattoo, such as a sleeve or back tattoo, the master may not want to do it - even if he has time to spare. Be respectful and enjoy your small tattoo. Perhaps if you are a good customer and tip, they may be interested in working with you in the future.
Be respectful. If the master is working, he probably won't want to bother with a lot of questions or fans. Those who attend often hold workshops where they share their experiences and tell their secrets, so don't be surprised if they don't want to teach you for free if you want to become a tattoo artist.
Store at conventions.
In addition to accommodating tattoo artists, each tattoo festival has several booths for stores that sell merchandise for both artists and customers. Everything from food to clothing to tattoo care products, paint, the latest equipment, etc.
Tattoo Convention Amsterdam 2021.
Competitions
Tattoo competitions are one of the of the main elements of the tattoo convention. They allow tattoo artists and collectors to showcase their work for a chance to win an award (and sometimes more). Some pre-convention tattoo categories may include "Best Black and White Tattoo," "Best Small Tattoo done in Color," or "Best Old-School Tattoo.
However, the convention's most popular and prestigious contests are Best Tattoo of the Day and Best Tattoo of the Festival, which feature work done at the event itself, respectively. Winners receive prizes ranging from a motorcycle to the latest tattoo machine.
Entertainment
Last but not least, there is entertainment at almost all conventions. These can be fire dancing, live music, or a burlesque performance. Some of these shows are suitable for all ages, while others are only for adults.
Most tattoo events are party venues featuring popular entertainers. They tend to be quite outrageous and challenging. But a lot of fun!
A must-visit!
We have told you the main points you should know about tattoo conventions. You can talk about them for a very long time, but it's no substitute for being there in person. It is incredible atmospherethat is completely steeped in culture and creativity.
I do not know about you, but after writing this article, we immediately wanted to visit this event again! Unfortunately, many events had to be postponed because of the situation with COVID-19, but hopefully next year we will be able to visit them together with you.
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Russian stars
As part of the lecture program will share their professional secrets. Dmitry Troshin, tattoo artist and photographer. Dmitry currently lives and works in the U.S., conducts training courses and tests prototype tattoo equipment. At the festival Dmitry will hold a six-hour master class.
The MMTC organizing team consists exclusively of professionals:
Alexander Kukinov - organizer and master tattoo artist.. His theme is heroic and epic: dragons, eagles, torches, daggers. The style of execution is old-school and neotraditional.
Pavel Angel Arefiev- Organizer and founder of MMTC, owner of Angel, the oldest tattoo studio in Moscow. He is famous for his tattoos "stone skin" (stone skin).
We recommend you pay attention to the studio GangstasParadise (Moscow) и NoNameTattooShop . (St. Petersburg), collected in the walls of the strongest tattoo artists.
