Contest Details
$10 entry fee.
Overall: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd trophies will be awarded with plaques for the artist.
Tattoo of the Day: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th trophies will be awarded with plaques for the artist.
Tattoo of the Day is for work done from start to finish on that day only.
Friday Contests
Judging begins at 10 PM
- Tattoo of the Day (Color)
- Tattoo of the Day (Black & Gray)
Saturday Contests
Judging begins at 5 PM
- Best Portrait (Color)
- Best Portrait (Black & Gray)
- Best Traditional
- Most Unusual
- Best Lettering
- Male: Small Color (4″ x 4″ and smaller)
- Female: Small Color (4″ x 4″ and smaller)
- Male: Medium Color (Up to 8″ x 8″)
- Female: Medium Color (Up to 8″ x 8″)
- Male: Large Color (Up to 12″ x 12″)
- Female: Large Color (Up to 12″ x 12″)
- Male: XL Color (Bigger than 12″ x 12″)
- Female: XL Color (Bigger than 12″ x 12″)
- Male: Small Black & Gray (4″ x 4″ smaller)
- Female: Small Black & Gray (4″ x 4″ and smaller)
- Male: Medium Black & Gray (Up to 8″ x 8″)
- Female: Medium Black & Gray (Up to 8″ x 8″)
- Male: Large Black & Gray (Up to 12″ x 12″)
- Female: Large Black & Gray (Up to 12″ x 12″)
- Male: XL Black & Gray (Bigger than 12″ x 12″)
- Female: XL Black & Gray (Bigger than 12″ x 12″)
Judging begins at 10 PM
- Tattoo of the Day (Color)
- Tattoo of the Day (Black & Gray)
Sunday Contests
Judging begins at 5 PM
- Original Flash
- Best Painting
- Small Color (4″ x 4″ and smaller)
- Small Black & Gray (4″ x 4″ and smaller)
- Medium Color (Up to 8″ x 8″)
- Medium Black & Gray (Up to 8″ x 8″)
- Large Color (Up to 12″ x 12″)
- Large Black & Gray (Up to 12″ x 12″)
- XL Color (Bigger than 12″ x 12″)
- XL Black & Gray (Bigger than 12″ x 12″)
- Sleeve
- Hand/Neck Tattoo
- Japanese
- Leg Sleeve
- Best Melanated Tattoo
- Color Infused Black & Gray
- Color Realism
- Black and Gray Realism
- Geometric / Tribal
- Chest Piece
- Back Piece
- Anime
- Overall (Male)
- Overall (Female)
- Cover Up (Before & after pictures required)
Judging begins at 7 PM
- Tattoo of the Day (Color)
- Tattoo of the Day (Black & Gray)
Best in Show
Tattoo Sponsors
Explore
What is the Villain Arts Tattoo Convention all about?
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.
Can kids attend?
Our shows are all ages! Kids under 12 are free.
Who will be at the event?
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.
Can I get tattooed at the convention?
Yes, absolutely. Hundreds of artists are tattooing live throughout the event. Many artists take walk-ups, but some prefer to book appointments in advance.
How old do I have to be to get a tattoo?
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.
Do I need a tattoo appointment, or can I walk up?
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.
How do I find an artist & book a tattoo appointment?
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.