The CultureWorks team caught up with event organizers at the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention. Read on to learn more about this iconic convention’s history, and why you should make your plans to attend!
The Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention, the longest-running tattoo convention in the world, returns October 23–25, 2026, at the DoubleTree by Hilton (1021 Koger Center Blvd).
For anyone who hasn’t been, what is the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention?
“It started in 1988, and it’s grown into a major East Coast arts and culture event while staying rooted in the creative community that built it. For three days, the DoubleTree becomes a gallery and creative marketplace. This year we’re welcoming more than 170 artists and 70 exhibitors from around the world. Many of them travel to Richmond just for this event, so it’s a rare chance to meet them, watch them work live, buy original art and collectibles, and, if you want, get tattooed by some of the most sought-after people in the industry.”
Is it only for people who want a tattoo?
“Not at all. You can shop original paintings, prints, apparel, jewelry and handcrafted goods from independent artists and makers. There’s live entertainment, art demonstrations, tattoo competitions, charity live painting and family-friendly activities all weekend. Whether you’re a collector, a creative professional or just looking for a great weekend, there’s something here for you.”
Who’s hosting this year?
“Jesse Smith of Loose Screw Tattoo is co-hosting with Ink Master champion Ryan Ashley!”
This year you’ve partnered with PangeaSeed. Why did you decide to work with this particular organization?
“Art has always been at the center of this convention, but we also believe art has the ability to do something bigger. 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.”
For people who don’t know PangeaSeed, what does that organization do?
“PangeaSeed is an international nonprofit creative studio that uses art, science and storytelling to change how people think, feel and act for the ocean. They work with artists, scientists, communities and mission-aligned partners to turn complex environmental issues into murals, campaigns, installations, fine art editions and public engagement projects.”
They call that approach “ARTivism.” What does that mean?
“It means using creativity as a tool for environmental education and action. Through programs like Sea Walls: Artists for Oceans, PangeaSeed has worked with hundreds of artists around the world on 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.”
Why is it important for RTAC to partner with organizations like 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.”
How does the partnership work at the event?
“PangeaSeed is the featured nonprofit for our Live Art for Charity program. More than a dozen internationally acclaimed artists create original pieces over the weekend, and those works are auctioned after the convention. Proceeds support PangeaSeed’s work in creativity and ocean conservation.”
Why does Live Art for Charity matter to you?
“Tattooing has always been a community built around artists supporting artists. 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.”
The Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention is another reason that artoberVA in Richmond is the best time of year to celebrate & explore our region’s incredible arts & culture!
You can make your plans and purchase tickets to the 2026 Richmond Tattoo Convention here. Don’t miss this iconic event!
