Kentish Express Ashford & District - What's On
Wearing your art on your sleeve
A three-day tattoo show will see more than 150 artists showcase their jaw-dropping designs
Once upon a time, tattoos were pretty much reserved for sailors, soldiers and bikers. These days, we don’t even look twice when someone gets inked and you’ll rarely pass through a high street that doesn’t boast at least one – if not more – tattoo studios.
Fans of unusual body art, larger-than-life designs and colourful flash can indulge their hobby this weekend at the Maidstone Tattoo Extravaganza.
The tattoo convention returns for the Easter bank holiday weekend with more than 150 artists.
The event, which is organised by Fraser and Samantha Williams, is now in its sixth year and will be at the Kent Showground once again this spring.
The couple, who are both from Maidstone, have been showcasing body modification at the exhibition since 2017, however, the festival was unable to go ahead for two years due to the Covid pandemic.
The event has attracted artists from all over the world, with exhibitors from Canada, Portugal and Scotland attending this year.
Many Kent-based tattooists will also be setting up their stalls over the weekend, including artists from Clockwork Ink in Faversham, High Tide Tattoo Studio in Whitstable, Inkcave in Maidstone and Stars and Swallows in Dartford.
Visitors who want to get inked that weekend can book their tattoos with artists in advance, or head to the convention and book a future appointment after browsing hundreds of pieces of artwork.
Alongside the artists, there will also be merchandise stalls selling lots of different items such as steampunk jewellery from Bling and Rocks, spiced spirits from Devil’s Bridge Rum and tshirts and hoodies from Twisted Squid. There will also be street food and music playing over the speakers where visitors can request songs they want. The Maidstone Tattoo Extravaganza is from Saturday, March 30 to Easter Monday at the Kent Showground, Detling. Tickets at £15 can be booked online or bought on the gate.