The Richmond Tattoo Convention is Back!
The Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention returns October 23-25, 2026, bringing together internationally celebrated artists, collectors, creators, and art enthusiasts for one of the most unique arts festivals in the country. Held at the DoubleTree by Hilton (1021 Koger Center Blvd), this three-day event transforms the venue into a vibrant gallery and creative marketplace where guests can experience world-class artistry up close.
Hosted by internationally acclaimed tattoo artist Jesse Smith, Ink Master champion Ryan Ashley, and Loose Screw Tattoo, the convention welcomes more than 170 artists and 70 exhibitors from around the world. Many of these internationally recognized artists travel to Richmond exclusively for this event, making it a rare opportunity to meet them in person, watch them create live, purchase original artwork and collectibles, and, for those interested, receive a tattoo from some of the industry's most sought-after talent.
Beyond tattooing, attendees can shop original paintings, prints, apparel, jewelry, handcrafted goods, and other works from independent artists and makers while enjoying live entertainment, art demonstrations, tattoo competitions, charitable live painting events, and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.
Whether you're an art collector, creative professional, or simply looking for an unforgettable weekend experience, the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention offers an inspiring opportunity to connect with artists from around the globe, discover new talent, and celebrate creativity in all its forms.
The Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention is also proud to announce PangeaSeed as its official nonprofit partner for 2026, bringing together two communities that believe in the power of art to create connection, inspire action, and make an impact.
“Art has always been at the center of this convention, but we also believe art has the ability to do something bigger,” said Jesse Smith, co-host of the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention and owner of Loose Screw Tattoo. “PangeaSeed has built an incredible global community around the idea that artists can use their talents to create awareness and change. That feels like a natural fit for what we’re building here in Richmond, and we’re excited to introduce their work to our community.”
PangeaSeed is an international nonprofit creative studio using art, science, and storytelling to transform how people think, feel, and act for the ocean. Through collaborations with artists, scientists, communities, and mission-aligned partners, the organization turns complex environmental issues into creative projects designed to deepen understanding and inspire action.
Art With an Impact
PangeaSeed will serve as the featured nonprofit partner for the convention’s Live Art for Charity program, where more than a dozen internationally acclaimed artists create original works throughout the weekend before the pieces are auctioned following the convention.
Proceeds from the initiative will support PangeaSeed and its work at the intersection of creativity and ocean conservation.
The partnership reflects PangeaSeed’s longstanding approach to what it calls “ARTivism,” harnessing creativity as a tool for environmental education and action. Through programs including Sea Walls: Artists for Oceans, PangeaSeed has worked with hundreds of artists around the world to create public art that gives the ocean a creative voice and connects communities with marine science and conservation.
“We believe art has a unique ability to reach people in ways that facts and figures alone cannot,” said Tré Packard, Executive Director of PangeaSeed. “The Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention brings together an extraordinary community of artists and art lovers, and we’re excited to see that creativity channeled toward ocean advocacy. Partnerships like this help introduce important environmental conversations to new audiences while giving artists another way to use their work as a force for positive change.”
A Growing Legacy of Art and Community
Since its beginnings in 1988, the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention has grown into a major East Coast arts and culture event while remaining rooted in the creative community that built it. Hosted by Jesse Smith, Ryan Ashley and Loose Screw Tattoo, the annual event welcomes internationally recognized tattoo artists alongside fine artists, makers, performers and collectors.
Live Art for Charity has become an important part of that mission, creating an opportunity for artists to showcase their creative process while supporting nonprofit organizations whose work extends beyond the convention floor.
“Tattooing has always been a community built around artists supporting artists,” Smith added. “Live Art for Charity gives us a chance to take that same energy and point it toward something meaningful. We want people to leave the convention inspired by what they saw, who they met and what art can accomplish.”
About the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention
Founded in 1988, the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention is the longest-running tattoo convention in the world. Hosted by Jesse Smith, Ryan Ashley and Loose Screw Tattoo, the annual event brings together leading tattoo artists, fine artists, makers and performers for a weekend celebrating tattoo culture, creativity and community. The 2026 convention will take place October 23–25 in Richmond, Virginia. Purchase tickets here.
About PangeaSeed
PangeaSeed is a nonprofit creative studio using art, science and storytelling to transform how people think, feel and act for the ocean. Through collaborations with artists, scientists, communities and mission-aligned partners, PangeaSeed creates murals, campaigns, installations, fine art editions, science-informed storytelling and public engagement initiatives that build connection, deepen understanding and inspire action for the ocean.
