Deeper than ink: Kamloops Tattoo Show creates connections beyond the chair

“There are so many different people out there who are small business owners, as well, who have things here today – whether that be in the tattoo community or with products and services, so it’s been wonderful. I’ve learned a lot more about where I live,” Adamchuk added.

For many vendors, the event offers something online platforms can’t – the chance to meet people face-to-face and introduce their work to an entirely new audience.

Whether it’s artwork, handmade goods or tattoos — big or small — every conversation has the potential for vendors to increase their recognition and exposure.

“It’s super exciting. We were able to make it last year, and it’s awesome to be able to see friends and other artists from all over the province. It means a lot being able to have people come up and find out about it,” said Kristopher Swain, the co-owner of Sickle & Sage.

For tattoo artists, the show is also an opportunity to strengthen relationships within the industry. Many said conventions like this help them exchange ideas, learn from one another and build relationships that last well beyond the weekend.

“It’s good networking. It’s good to meet all the other artists, too, and network with them,” said Drew Boyle, who co-owns his shop, Limitless, with his partner Tineke Shepherd.

“You make friends with your neighbors. It’s that networking,” added Shepherd.

That sense of connection extends throughout the venue.

Artists travelled from across British Columbia and beyond to take part, bringing different styles and perspectives together.

For owners who are artists — like Brandi Robertson — the event is recognized as more than what it appears to be at the surface.

“We always want to grow and expand, and coming to a show like this, you get to meet not only new people who you maybe run into at some shows in our own province, but also we get to meet artists who we don’t get to see, as well. We view shows not only [as] getting to connect with new clientele, but also getting to meet new artists and getting to kind of know their stories and form friendships,” said Robertson, one of the owners of Omnia Tattoo and Art.

Meanwhile, local artists say the steady stream of visitors creates opportunities they wouldn’t normally see through social media alone – an authentic, face-to-face approach.

“There’s a ton of foot traffic, so you see a lot of people from different areas,” said Ashlyn Sunderman, an artist at Sakred Skin.

“It’s really cool getting to meet everybody and see all the cool art,” added Sunderman’s co-worker, Hayley Corrigal.

As the tattoo machines continued buzzing and artists filled appointment books, many vendors left the weekend with more than just sales – new networks, new opportunities and a growing community.

by Jeremy Russo

Deeper than ink: Kamloops Tattoo Show creates connections beyond the chair

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