Artists travel across the United States to conventions like the Cleveland Tattoo Convention because of the large crowds they attract. Some nights, attendance increases as more people come to explore different styles. The work ranges from cartoon-inspired designs to highly realistic tattoos created either from an artist’s original drawing or from a reference photo brought in by a client.
While some artists focus primarily on designing tattoo concepts as part of their job, others sit at their booths sketching on canvas, drawing whatever comes to mind. The convention also features more than just tattoos. Booths display sculptures, clothing, and merchandise designed by individual artists to help support their businesses.
Some well-known names also attend, including artists from the TV series Ink Masters. Attendees can pay for a tattoo from a featured artist working in a central tent area. The convention also hosts competition throughout the weekend, including awards for the largest tattoo and the most intricate design. Winners can receive trophies, plaques, and cash prizes.
Many artists begin in other creative fields before transitioning into tattooing, including graffiti, makeup artistry and school art classes that first sparked their interest. “Originally I wanted to get into [tattooing] for permanent makeup,” said Carly Brown, an artist who originates in Illinois, who has traveled to Cleveland for the past three years just to go to this event.
Experience levels vary widely among artists at the convention. “Ive been tattooing twenty-five years, [and going to conventions for] fifteen years.” Said Rob Gomez, a tattoo artist who focuses on black and grey realism with a multitude of projects of realistic images on their clients.
No matter how long an artist has attended conventions, clients are often drawn in by the work displayed at their booths, including portfolios of past tattoos and original drawings. At nearly every booth, someone can be seen lying on a table getting tattooed.
Artists are generally welcoming. Even while working with a client, many say they are happy to answer questions. If someone asks about pricing or how long a tattoo might take, artists will often pause briefly to explain the process.
“[Even] on my worst day, I’m drawing pictures and listening to great music with cool people,” said Lenny Paul, a tattoo artist of four years. Tattooing offers flexibility, allowing artists to schedule appointments around their own availability while working with clients who value their art.
Some booths offer walk-up appointments, while others are fully booked by returning clients or those who reserved spots earlier in the day. The time required for a tattoo depends on the artist’s style and the level of detail involved. Precision takes patience, and artists must also take time to clean their workspace properly to help protect clients from potential infections.
If you have a love for tattoos, jewelry, and collectible items sold at conventions, the Cleveland Tattoo Convention offers something for you. Merchandise is often priced lower than usual at these events. Admission is $25, and a variety of food vendors are available throughout the venue.
The convention takes place multiple times a year and features different artists each time. Depending on your availability, you can attend, meet new people, and bond over a shared appreciation for tattoo culture and art.
