Participating in Tattoo Events, Festivals, and Conventions

Anastasiia Koviazina
5 min readMay 16, 2023

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Anastasiia Koviazina awarded with 2nd place nomination “Sketch” at 11th International Sochi Tattoo Festival 2023

Participating in tattoo events, festivals, and conventions has been an exhilarating and transformative experience for me as a tattoo artist. It has allowed me to showcase my skills, connect with fellow artists and enthusiasts, and immerse myself in the vibrant tattoo culture that brings us all together. In this article, I want to share my personal journey and the valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way.

What motivated me to start participating in tattoo events, festivals, and conventions

The desire to challenge myself and push the boundaries of my artistry motivated me to participate in tattoo events. These platforms provide an incredible opportunity to not only showcase my work but also learn from other talented artists, explore new techniques, and exchange creative ideas. The energy and enthusiasm surrounding these events are infectious, and I wanted to be a part of that dynamic environment.

Anastasiia Koviazina Winner of Charity Tattoo Battle Tattooist Help 2022 nomination “Linework” 2022

My journey in tattoo events, festivals, and conventions has been filled with memorable moments and notable achievements. Among these highlights, I am proud to have won prestigious awards such as “Best of Day” and “Graphic Tattoo” at the International Sochi Tattoo Festival. These recognitions have affirmed my dedication and passion for tattoo art. Additionally, being a participant and winner in the Tattooist Help Charity Tattoo Battle showcased the power of art in supporting meaningful causes.

Tattoo convention exhibition

For professionals, tattoo events hold immense importance. They provide valuable opportunities to expand their network, gain exposure, and establish their reputation within the industry. These events offer a chance to stay updated with the latest trends, techniques, and innovations in tattoo art. Moreover, participating in these events allows professionals to receive feedback, engage in constructive discussions, and grow artistically by pushing their boundaries.

Attending tattoo events not only fosters personal and professional growth but also inspires artists to constantly evolve their craft. The camaraderie and shared passion among attendees create an atmosphere of creativity, inspiration, and mutual support. It is through these events that professionals can celebrate their artistry, forge meaningful connections, and contribute to the larger tapestry of the tattoo community.

Tattoo model showing her tattoos to the judges at the Sochi Tattoo Festival 2022. Artist: Anastasiia Koviazina

How have these experiences contributed to my growth as a tattoo artist?

Participating in these events has been a catalyst for my growth as a tattoo artist. They have exposed me to diverse styles, techniques, and perspectives, expanding my artistic horizons. Interacting with fellow artists and receiving feedback from industry professionals has been invaluable in honing my skills and refining my artistic vision. Each event has been a stepping stone in my artistic journey, allowing me to continuously evolve and push the boundaries of my creativity.

Tattoo model showing her tattoos at Saint Petersburg Tattoo Festival 2022. Artists: Anastasiia Koviazina

During tattoo events, artists often have the opportunity to participate in various competitions where their skills and artwork are evaluated by a panel of judges. These competitions are an exciting aspect of these events, as artists compete in different categories, such as style, size, technique, or theme, to showcase their talent and creativity.

Tattoo model showing her tattoos to the judges at the Sochi Tattoo Festival 2022. Artist: Anastasiia Koviazina

Judges carefully assess each entry based on criteria such as technical proficiency, originality, composition, and overall aesthetic appeal. The winners are then chosen based on the judges’ expert opinions, and they receive recognition and awards for their outstanding work, adding a sense of healthy competition and motivation to the event atmosphere.

In addition to my participation in various tattoo events, I have been honored to receive several notable awards for my tattoo artistry. One such recognition was at the International Art competition, where I was awarded 1st place in the esteemed “Pencil Sketch” category. This achievement was a testament to my ability to capture intricate details and bring them to life through my pencil work.

3rd place “Graphic Tattoo” 11th International Sochi Tattoo Festival 2023 awarded to Anastasiia Koviazina

Another significant accolade came from the International Online Tattoo Convention, where I secured 1st place in the highly competitive “Female Tattoo” category. This recognition highlighted my proficiency in creating stunning and meaningful tattoo designs specifically tailored for women.

Furthermore, my dedication to the craft of tattooing was acknowledged at the Tattoo Sketch Awards, where I proudly claimed 1st place in the “Small Female Sketches” category. This award celebrated my skill in translating intricate and delicate designs into captivating tattoo sketches.

Anastasiia Koviazina with her award “Best of Day” at the 10th International Sochi Tattoo Festival 2022

These awards and participations have not only fueled my passion for tattoo artistry but have also validated my commitment to continuous growth and artistic excellence. They serve as a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication I pour into each and every tattoo I create.

What’s next?

I am thrilled to share that I have some exciting plans in the world of tattoo conventions. One event I’m eagerly looking forward to is the Empire State Tattoo Expo 2024, where I’ll have the opportunity to showcase my art and connect with artists and enthusiasts in the vibrant tattoo community of New York. I’m equally excited about the Golden State Tattoo Expo in 2024, where I’ll immerse myself in the rich tattoo culture of California. And, of course, the Chicago Villain Arts Tattoo Convention 2024 holds a special place in my heart, as I hope to create breathtaking artwork and engage with the diverse tattoo community there. These upcoming events hold immense significance for me, and I am eager to be a part of them and continue growing as an artist.

Upcoming tattoo events in USA

Participating in tattoo events, festivals, and conventions has been a transformative experience that has shaped my journey as a tattoo artist. It has allowed me to showcase my skills, learn from fellow artists, and explore the ever-evolving world of tattoo art. The highlights and achievements along the way have fueled my passion and commitment to this art form. With upcoming plans to be a part of incredible tattoo conventions, I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead and the new connections I will forge in this thriving community.

Anastasiia Koviazina

May 17, 2023

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Anastasiia Koviazina

Certified Tattoo Artist • Design Creator • Award winning artist