Nowadays, with the increasing amount of TV shows based around this art form, and the amount of people we see on a daily basis sporting tatts, this ever growing industry seems more popular than ever, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.Even so, if you’re not an inking fanatic yourself, you might be surprised to hear that one of the most exciting and slick celebrations of body art in the world will be held in the capital this September. The London International Tattoo Convention has actually been taking place annually for nearly thirteen years! And it’s no small shindig either.
For the 2017 convention, organisers from Tattoo Life magazine, have arranged for over four hundred of the world’s most prominent and talented tattoo artists to take over London’s tobacco dock for the three day event. The convention will see tens of thousands of tattoo enthusiasts witnessing the cream of the world’s best inkers showcasing their skills.
The list of style genres available are endless: ranging from traditional to realism to religious to Japanese Iconography to geometric, and many more besides. But if you’re not planning on getting inked yourself and the idea of spending hours watching others from the tattoo community creating or receiving theirs doesn’t inject you with even an inkling of excitement – an exemplary programme of entertainment and exhibitions has also been planned for the duration of the convention.
A dynamic new live music area with an upgraded Main Stage will further enhance September’s convention. Live catwalk shows, tattoo contests and live music (in the new live music area) will all feature, as will several exhibitions, shows and exciting performances.
Chris Guest Exhibition
An exhibition of works by Chris Guest, a London-based figurative painter, known for combining traditional oil painting techniques with more contemporary styles for his figurative works, will be on show. Guest’s work often depicts glamourous, seductive and strikingly colourful tattooed subjects.
Kintaro Kite Project
Another spectacular exhibition planned for this year will be the Kintaro Kite Project- a must for Japanese art lovers. The true extent and beauty of this genre can be fully appreciated at this exhibition. It will feature 35 of the world’s most prolific tattoo artists specialising in Japanese style.
Pyrotechnics
Pyrotechnic lovers will be well catered for at this year's convention. London based high octane pyro-fire-arial performers, ‘Pyrohex’ will take to the Fuel Stage to perform their latest group act with fire at intervals across the three days.
Burlesque
Taking to the stage once more at this year’s convention will be performer and “tattooed lady”, Janet Fischiett. From her outfits to her character, her stunning show is reflective of 1930’s Circus style Burlesque, and definitely not one to be missed.
Why Go?
For appreciators of art, music, live performances, and of course, tattoos, the 13th International London Tattoo Convention is on course to be an exciting and inspiring place to spend a day or two; it runs from 22nd to 24th on of September 2017. Check venue website for details.
