The Twin Cities Tattoo Festival transformed the St. Paul RiverCentre into a creative hub as tattoo artists from across the country gathered for the event. Local artist Jesse Brady from Sacred Siren Tattoo & Art Parlor in Minneapolis stood out with her illustrative neo-traditional style, creating one extensive piece each day. She emphasized the importance of storytelling through her art.

Freddie Brown from Illinois showcased his illustrative neo-traditional work, combining bold outlines with vibrant colors. The festival featured various tattoo styles, including traditional, blackwork, new school, and illustrative realism, with popular themes like horror movie icons and classic American designs.

Chicago artist Kelly Severtson impressed with his fantasy-inspired tattoos of wizards and goblins. Conventions like this offered tattoo enthusiasts the chance to get inked by top-tier artists. Brown noted the convenience of having such talent in one place.

Artists like Brown and Brady attended multiple conventions yearly, enjoying the unique atmosphere. Kayne Anders from Black Sheep Tattoo and Art Collective described how he grew more comfortable showcasing his colorful new school designs at conventions.

The festival also fostered camaraderie among artists, who bonded and shared inspiration. As Brady remarked, “The camaraderie of a convention is like no other place.”