Tattoo & Art Show – Ink’d 2012
Some of the region’s most unique pieces of art will be on display at Club Waimea this Saturday – once they walk through the door.
Ink’d 12, Nelson’s latest tattoo expo will showcase the best local tattoos, tattoo artists, crown “Mr and Mrs Ink’d 12” and feature top graffiti artists, body pierces, muscle cars, roller derby girls and burlesque dancers.
Brendan Benjamin of Out There Entertainment came up with the idea, having been to other tattoo shows around New Zealand. He says there had not been a similar show in Nelson for at least 18 months and it was something the industry was definitely looking forward to with more than 170 sponsors supporting it. “It’s about time artists in Nelson got recognised for the work that they do and people get awarded for the art that they wear. Nelson hasn’t had a decent tattoo show in a long time,” he says. “The tattoo scene has really grown. It’s not about being ‘thug life’ and criminal, it’s all about artwork and artwork that you wear.”
There will be no gang patches allowed and while Brendan says they will not be turning anyone over 18 years old away from the event, entrants should be mindful that it is a friendly atmosphere. “Everyone is welcome, but they must respect people and respect the club that we are holding this at.”
Mr and Mrs Ink’d is similar to “Mr and Mrs Kaiteriteri” except based on the tattoos each person has, says Brendan. A full judging panel of five guests will also award the event’s top tattoo. Registration is at 10am with judging being done at 2pm.
Anyone with a tattoo or an interest in tattoos is recommended to come, but the vast items of entertainment will appeal to the masses. There will also be a unique opportunity to get tattooed on the day and a body piercer will also be on site.
This is the first time Ink’d is being held and it is set to become an annual event.
Ink’d 12 is being hosted by Club Waimea on Queen St, Richmond on Saturday. The door opens at 10am with the event running until late. Tickets are $10 if you are a spectator only. The event costs $20 if you enter into the tattoo competitions. Tickets can be purchased at Everyman Records and there limited door sales. It is an R18 event.
