As the Winnipeg Tattoo Convention was held this weekend, it continued to be a popular venue for conventions in Manitoba.
Rich Handford, the event coordinator, was delighted to be back following a two year absence. He said that it was “exhilarating!” He said tattoos have a timeless appeal that speaks to all people in some way. It’s amazing to finally be able to host all these smiley faces after two years of very strict provincial regulations.
The event attracted more than 200 artists, with 70 from Manitoba. Handford said that some of the artists came from Spain and England to be there. Handford said that the show featured “some of the most skilled tattooists today.”
Safwan, who is a Montreal tattoo shop owner was joined by four other members of his team. It’s great for him to be back at the convention, after two years due to health issues.
He said, “It was devastating for many people, we are still standing, and luckily there are still shows like this one. But yeah, it was tough for everyone.”
It ran from Friday night to Saturday evening and Sunday morning until 11:00 p.m.
Safwan believes tattoo conventions form an important part of his business. We connect with each other, and the public in ways that are not possible in shops. He said it was great and very festive.
It’s an opportunity for us as an industry to come together and demonstrate what we can accomplish.”
