Tatt’s way to do it as crowds flock to massive ink event
QUEUES FOR THE BIGGEST SHOW OF ITS KIND IN NORTH
CROWDS turned out at Metro Radio Arena yesterday morning for the launch of the city’s biggest ever tattoo show.
A queue formed early as the two-day Big North Tattoo Show began with around 300 artists from across the country coming together in Newcastle under one roof.
Families were among visitors of all ages who were eager to see the tattoo artists in action.
Many had booked slots to have a new tattoo done by a big name, while others just wanted to watch and learn or admire the range of colourful catalogues of work.
The arena has been divided into work stations and most of them were occupied by people on tables and chairs having tattoos while spectators watched from the seating area.
Entertainment ranged from improv comedy to a knife-wielding tricks on a main stage and in the foyer with a similar programme set to follow today.
There were also competitions, children’s entertainment and food stalls.
The show is being seen as a showcase event for the region and in the run-up to yesterday, 2,000 tickets had already been sold, said co-organiser Martin McIver.
“We’ve always seen tattoos as extremely popular in Newcastle which is why we chose to do a show here, but we’ve been bowled over by the response,” he said.
“It’s far greater than we were expecting.”
A huge range of tattoos, from classical to oriental, are on offer at the work stations.
Lauren Stephans, of Newcastle-based Cock A Snook tattoo parlour, was busy with her brand of feminine tattoos.
She said: “I’m 90% booked but I’ve left a little bit of room at the end of each day.
“I think tomorrow will be even busier, being the day before Bank Holiday Monday.”
One of the star attractions is Xed Le Hed, who’s described as a tattoo pioneer and has influenced many in the business.
He came to Newcastle with wife Wiggy and pals to carry out work in support of North East tattoo artist Ferank Manseed who has suffered a debilitating stroke. The money they raise will support his family.
Enjoying his first trip to Newcastle, Xed said they had arrived in the city the night before and had attended a Slaves gig at the Academy as part of Hit The North festival. He said of the city: “It’s lovely.” Among yesterday visitors was Gavin Leng who had travelled up from Hull and was having sleeve work continued on his arm by Jemmy Lavey of Gateshead tattoo studio Art La Vey.
She welcomed the chance to showcase regional talent and said: “I think it’s brilliant doing a show up here, close to home, and it’s very busy!”
Gavin added: “It’s the first time I’ve been here, and my first show, and it’s great.
“I really want to go around looking at everything and speaking to people.”
Also making the most of the day were father and daughter Robert Tindle and Natasha Miller, from Durham, who said they were enjoying the family atmosphere and watching the artists at work.
Natasha said: “My dad is a tattooist and I bought him tickets for this for this birth-