Latest People: Brighton Tattoo Convention 2015
The Brighton Tattoo Convention
Brighton Tattoo Convention 2015
The Brighton Tattoo Convention, after seven years of evolving into
a premier international show, brought a burst of colour to the
heart of the English winter with stellar tattoo artists, engaging entertainment, thoughtful workshops and exhibits, unique
vendors, and a fun and lively atmosphere.
For the first time since its first incarnation in 2008, the convention was held over three days, kicking off on Friday 20 February at 3pm and continuing all the way through to finish in the early hours of Monday morning. The tattooing, competitions, performances, seminars, workshops and gallery shows took place in the largest exhibition
space in Southern England, the Hilton Brighton Metropole.
Three-hundred-and-fifty world class artists from 16 countries,
as far afield as Australia, Mexico, Brazil, Japan, Crotia, Poland, Scandinavia, Italy, Greece and the US were showcased, with a particular focus as well on fresh new talent from within the UK.
In the spotlight were US big hitters Dan Smith, Megan Massacre, Bugs, Eric Gonzalez, BJ Betts and Big Meas. Newcomers were Greece’s Dirty Roses and Sake Tattoo Crew.
Flying the flag for Great Britain, London’s Valerie Vargas and Stewart Robson brought their new studio, Modern Classic, down for the weekend. Up-and-coming artists included Math, Craig Ridley, Swambo, Kode and Ryan Evans. Adding
to the excitement, the Godfathers of UK Tattooing Lal Hardy and George Bone were in attendance. Lal, as well as Adam Heys, offered workshops the first day of the convention, in addition to others sharing their expertise on tattoo history, art and culture. Keeping crowds entertained were live music legends The Meteors, The
Sex Pistols Experience, King Salami and the Cumberland 3.
Here’s hoping the convention grows exponentially – it’s
a weekend not to be missed.
Dr Martens Tattoo Fundraiser
Dr Martens Brighton raised over £1,000 for local charity Rise UK with their Tattoo Convention Raffle. The Doc Martens store worked with two local tattoo studios, Gilded Cage and Skin Candy, whose artists customised a selection of DM products with their designs. These unique pieces of artwork were then displayed as raffle prizes for the convention goers to win. Over the weekend the store raised £511 for local charity Rise UK by selling raffle tickets – winners were announced at the close of the convention on Sunday evening. Dr Martens matched the amount, bringing the total to £1,022.
Doc Martens Brighton, 15B Prince Albert Street, BN1 1HF
