Tattoo Fest leaves its mark

The Barbados International Tattoo Fest 2023 edition left tattoo enthusiasts buzzing with excitement as it inked its way into the hearts of attendees at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre this past weekend.

What started as a modest affair in 2019 has now transformed into a full-blown ink extravaganza that is all abuzz in the local tattoo universe.

Part of the organising team, Ahmeer Rampersad, explained: “The event was started to spread awareness and to spread love among the tattoo community. It is used for tattoo artists to portray their artwork and their ways of expressing emotions and love through their artwork as well.”

And boy, did they spread the love.

This year, the fest decided to go big by extending the event to a thrilling two-day affair, making it the biggest bash in the fest’s history. With a whopping 51 artists from around the globe, attendees were lining up for some ink-spiration like never before and even the tattoo artists were pleasantly surprised at the turnout.

On day one, more than 400 patrons flocked to the venue, with Sunday pulling in an equally enthusiastic crowd.

“We just want to say a very special thank you for the support we have got from all the Bajans and their community. They all came and supported, they were very welcoming towards us coming and staging the event,” Rampersad said.

Tattoo Fest, which started its journey in Trinidad 13 years ago, has now firmly embedded itself in Barbados’ vibrant culture.

Owner Dominic Jaglal highlighted the significance of bringing together local, regional, and international artists to help boost the industry.

He said: “One of the essentials of Tattoo Fest Barbados is that it adds to the economy. Take, for example, the international artists when they fly in … the Airbnbs, the car rentals. When they make their Bajan money, they spend it right here. This is our own way of selling Barbados not only as a vacation destination but as a place where you can come and explore the new-founded arts and craze that is called tattoo and body art.”

Barbadian tattoo artists are no longer flying under the radar. Jaglal acknowledged the shift in perception, saying: “Before, the Bajan tattoo artist was not respected, the Bajan tattoo artist was not paid correctly, and the clientele did not respect their craft because they did not understand it.” The fest aims to change that narrative and thrust tattooing into the spotlight, showcasing the talent and passion of local artists.

Besides the jaw-dropping tattoos, there was a Supercon that featured anime and Supernova enthusiasts strutting their stuff as their favourite characters, highlighting another level of artistic expression.

Throughout the event, awards were presented to tattoo artists who diligently worked on their human canvases, in categories like Best Large Script Tattoo, Best Personal Style, and Best Large Tattoo. (STT)