Villain Arts Tattoo Festivals - Logo
Villain Arts Syracuse logo featuring a skull above crossed flaming eyeball torches, set over a teal patterned circle.

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General

Our festivals are a celebration of tattoo culture—bringing together world-class tattoo artists, amazing entertainers, vendors, and tattoo enthusiasts all under one roof. Whether you’re coming to get inked, shop unique merch, or just experience the energy, there's something for everyone. 

Our shows are all ages! Kids under 12 are free.

Each show features hundreds of artists, performers, and vendors. Browse the Master Directory or visit the Event Page for each city to see the full lineup, including guest artists, entertainers, and links to their portfolios and social media.

Yes, absolutely. Hundreds of artists are tattooing live throughout the event. Many artists take walk-ups, but some prefer to book appointments in advance.

At our festivals you must be 18 or older, with a valid government-issued photo ID. No exceptions. This is a legal requirement, and we strictly enforce it.

Tattoo prices vary widely depending on the artist, the size and detail of the design, and the location on your body. Here’s a rough guide:

 – Small tattoos: $100–$300
 – Medium pieces: $300–$800
 – Large or detailed work: $1,000+

 Each artist sets their own rates. To get an accurate quote, contact them directly with your idea.

Booking is handled directly with the artist. Browse the Master Directory or visit the Event Page for the city you’re visiting. Check out artist profiles, and reach out via social media or their website. Be sure to include your design idea, size, placement, and any references. Artists will reply with availability, pricing, and deposit requirements if they’re interested.

You can also check out the event’s official Instagram page, Facebook page, or Facebook event—all linked from the same festival web page. Many artists promote their availability in posts or stories on those channels, and you can often reach out to them directly via DM.

Many artists leave time for walk-up tattoos, especially for smaller pieces, while others book up completely in advance. If you’re hoping for something larger, specific or from a particular artist, it’s best to contact them ahead of time. Otherwise, you should have an easy time finding an artist without needing an appointment.

The term “canvas” is often misunderstood. In tattoo competitions or reality shows, a “canvas” refers to someone getting tattooed—usually under very specific circumstances (like being on TV, agreeing to unpredictable artwork, or sitting for long, intense sessions).

At our conventions, artists are working professionals. While they may occasionally offer discounted for creative freedom or competition purposes, they do not offer free tattoos just for the sake of practice or exposure. If you’re looking for work at a reduced rate, your best bet is to follow artists on social media, as well scrolling the festival’s social media accounts stories and feed.

No. All artists are working professionals who charge for their time and skill. Expect to pay for your tattoo like you would any other high-quality service.

Tickets

You can buy tickets online in advance through the specific show page on our website, or at the door during the event. Buying in advance lets you skip the ticket line and head straight into the event.

Current SHow

Your ticket gives you full access to the event floor, including entertainment, live tattooing, vendors, and artist booths. Tattoos, piercings, and merchandise are not included in the ticket price and are paid for separately.

No, your admission covers access to the event itself. Tattoo costs are handled directly with the artist and are a separate transaction.

Yes. Unless the artist has obtained a pass on your behalf or purchased a ticket for you , everyone needs a ticket or pass to enter the festival.

Yes. We offer refunds for tickets canceled at least 24 hours before the event begins. After that point, tickets are non-refundable.

Booth holders

Please refer to the links below to request an account to the Villain Arts Registration Portal! 

If you already have an account, Please click here to log into your portal

If not, please see the following options: 

Artists must have 2 years shop experience and a solid portfolio to be approved. Please click here to apply for an Artist account

Booth Holders may purchase booths and build a Roster of artists. Click here to apply for a Booth Holder account 

If you are both an Artist AND the one purchasing the booth, you will fill out both Artist & Booth Holder forms under one email address 

Non-Tattoo vendors may also become Booth Holders and purchase booths. Click here to apply for a Booth Holder account

Sponsors have their logo displayed on our website and banner hung at the shows. Click here to upgrade to a Sponsor account

Booths start at $750. Each booth is 10×10 and fits 2 artists

Booth holders must first register here. Once approved, you will receive another email from Villain Arts titled, “Welcome to Villain Arts Tattoo Festival.” Click the activation link to set your password and log into your portal account!

Log in

To add an artist to your Artist Roster, navigate to the Artist Roster Tab on your Dashboard. If the Artist is not in our system yet, they will receive a Recommendation email to set up an account.

All submissions are vetted for 2 years shop experience and a sold portfolio. If an artist is approved, they will receive a Welcome email to activate their account. It is recommended to have all artists approved and activated before purchasing booths. 

Once an Artist has their account set up, the Booth Holder can add them under the booths they have purchased on their portal Dashboard.

After being added to a show, the Artist will see a notification on their Dashboard with more information. 

View Details
  • Three badges, generally for 2 artists & 1 assistant. (If you need more badges, you may purchase them at check-in, cash only. Tickets purchased through our Kiosks or online cannot be redeemed until 2PM Friday.) 
  • Two Tables. (One wood 6ft x 2ft front table with black table cloth. One plastic 6ft x 18 inch table with a white sanitized vinyl cover. Extra tables are available if needed.)
  • Four chairs
  • Electricity
  • Trash bin & liner
  • Access to Artist Area for copies and Thermofax
  • Consent & Aftercare forms
  • Sharps Container
  • Distilled Water
  • Banner Hooks

If you need help accessing your account or navigating your Dashboard, please submit a support ticket here.

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