This weekend tattoo artists, fans and future ink recipients from around the Northwest gathered at the first annual Three Rivers Tattoo Convention.

The convention included eight vendors, artists from 28 shops, tattoo safety courses and contests. Sponsors included McCurley Integrity Dealerships, H2Ocean, Budweiser, Ice Harbor Brewing Company, Oxy King and Gypsy Queens.

Our friend Herrell won best oriental tattoo for his leg piece done in Japan. Shops and ink lovers also competed for best sleeve, portrait, traditional, tattoo of the day and full back piece.

I came to the convention to take pictures, network and support my friends at Cascadia Tattoo. While I didn’t get any tattoos, I certainly brainstormed a few ideas. Cory, my friend who works at the shop, promised to draw tattoos on my arms using eyeliner. We ran out of time this weekend, but hopefully he’ll still help a homegirl out because I certainly want to try before I buy (for life)!

In life there are two people. Those who are tattooed and those who are not. In my experience, I’ve noticed those with ink tend to be more artistic, accepting and tolerant of others. People who aren’t tattooed come across as judgmental and occasionally associate ink with criminals, gangsters or rap stars.

The Three Rivers Tattoo Convention broke down some misconceptions associated with tattoos. While I probably won’t ever find my Dad at a tattoo convention, I hope he (and everyone who holds negative connotations with ink) realizes tattoos are a form or art, expression and acceptance. Ink isn’t everything and as our generation ages, I feel it will become more accepted in the workforce. For now, it looks like I’m sticking to eyeliner.

♥ BB