Fresh ink
Second annual Oklahoma Tattoo Arts Convention held in OKC
Ink i s flowing this weeke nd at t he downtown Cox Convention Center where artists, tattoo enthusiasts and entertainers have gathered for the second annual Oklahoma Tattoo Arts Convention.
Hosted by Troy Timpel and Villain Arts, the convention draws people looking for fresh ink, accessories and merchandise at about 80 booths.
Masks are mandatory and hand sanitizer is plentiful. Social distancing is required.
“We really feel we've created an environment suitable for what we're doing here,” Timpel said Friday afternoon.
Among the entertainers are Alakazam the Human Knot, a daredevil contortionist also known as Alan Mill ar. He juggles machetes.
“I do crazy things with my body ,” he said .“I cut my finger with a chainsaw once.”
Another per f or mer, The Enigma, is tattooed all over his body with jigsaw puzzle
pieces. His ears match, having been clipped in the shape of puzzle pieces.
Also known as Paul Lawrence, The Enigma has performed with the Jim Rose Circus, toured with multiple high- profile musical acts and is frequently featured on TV shows.
On Friday, he swallowed a sword for The Oklahoman staffers.
“You got to come and see,” he said.
“It's like a road accident. You can't look away.”
Tattoo artists are available for those looking for new work.
Day passes are $20. Tickets are sold at the convention and children under 12 are admitted for free.
Dr. Carl Blasphemy is the master of ceremonies.
“Anything you need to accessorize your tattoo lifestyle, you're going to find it here,” Blasphemy said.