Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention: A Global Celebration with Family at Its Heart

For 37 years, the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention has been more than just a tattoo convention. It is a global gathering where artists come together to connect, learn, and showcase their work. What makes this event truly unique is its sense of family. Many of the artists have been returning for decades, raising their own families alongside one another and creating a safe and welcoming environment where all ages can experience creativity.

World-renowned tattooer Jesse Smith and Ink Master winner and judge Ryan Ashley are hosting this year’s celebration, October 17 to 19, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Midlothian. Both are parents themselves, and they see the convention as a way to help introduce their children to art and creativity.

“As a dad, I love that this convention has grown into something that my kid looks forward to each year,” says Jesse Smith. “Tattoo culture has always been about family and community, and with all the activities we’ve added, we’re making sure the next generation feels included as well.”

Ryan Ashley agrees. “Now that I’m a mom, I see the convention in a whole new light. It’s not just about tattoos, it’s about showing kids that art can be fun, powerful, and part of who they are. I’m thrilled we get to share that with families who come out each year.”

A Special Kids-Only Package

Families won’t want to miss the Tatter Tot Swag Bag, designed just for kids. Available for purchase online and in-person, each ticket package comes with a T-shirt, coloring poster, sticker pack, and tote bag. It’s the perfect way for kids to bring home souvenirs from their first tattoo convention experience and match with Mom and Dad.

A Kid-Friendly Area Full of Art

The kids’ area has been expanded and renamed Kenny Brown’s Tiny Tat Town in honor of the late tattooer’s passion for creating inclusive spaces. Located outside in the designated activity zone, i a hub of creativity and entertainment all weekend long.

Highlights include:

• The Tiny Tat Shack, where kids ages 3 to 12 can create washable tattoos on family members or friends using safe art supplies.
• Free Kids’ Tattoo Competitions on Friday and Saturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 4 p.m., judged by professional tattooers and guest judges. Every participant wins a prize
• A bounce house for nonstop fun
• Caricature portraits by Zitman’s Caricatures, offering a unique keepsake to take home
• A variety of pre-planned activities, games, and crafts

Prizes for kids range from trophies, plushies, and books to Halloween treat bags and ice cream vouchers from Narwals in Carytown.

Hands-On Art Opportunities

This Richmond Tattoo and Arts Convention is dedicated to giving kids and families the chance to make their own art. The Kids’ Tattoo Competitions are a highlight, judged by industry leaders and designed to encourage self-expression and creativity.

This year we will be having a kids version of our Live Art for Charity event, so they can join in the fun by working on our 4, 2’ x 2’ kids collaborative paintings.

Attendees can also join in the fun at the Studio Two Three booth, where Richmond’s nonprofit print studio will offer screen-printing sessions. Visitors can print their own T-shirts or totes with limited-edition RTAC x S23 designs and take home a unique piece of wearable art.

Young Artists can Get Inspired By Live Fine Artists at Work

The convention will once again host the Live Art for Charity showcase, where artists create 3-by-3 foot works in real time throughout the weekend. These original pieces will be auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting Studio Two Three, the art convention’s official charity partner. 

Special guest Ivann Garcia, known for his world-renowned 3D chalk illusions, will also perform live, transforming ordinary spaces into interactive works of art. His performances are an unforgettable example of how fine art can inspire and engage audiences of all ages.

A Safe and Welcoming Community

The Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention is more than an event. It is a gathering of artists who treat one another like family, and a place where parents can introduce their children to the creative process. With tattooing, fine art, live performances, and family-friendly activities, the convention continues its nearly four-decade legacy of being one of the most inclusive and welcoming gatherings of its kind.

“Richmond has such a rich artistic culture, and this event is a true celebration of that spirit,” says Ryan Ashley. “The energy here is unlike any other, and the best part is that it’s a place where everyone, from artists to fans, can come together to create, connect, and be inspired.”

Helpful Event Details

Dates: October 17 to 19, 2025
Hours: Friday, 2:30 – 2 a.m.; Saturday, Noon to 2 a.m.; Sunday, Noon to 7 p.m. (Each day is kid-friendly until 8 p.m.!
Venue: DoubleTree by Hilton – Midlothian, 1021 Koger Center Blvd, Richmond, VA 23235
Parking: Purchase in advance for faster entry. $8 dollars per day or $15 dollars for the weekend
Cost: Children under 12 get in for free.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit and explore the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention website. 

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