Ink Master Stars Ryan Ashley + Jesse Smith are Co-Hosting the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention this October

The Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention will celebrate 36 years in American tattoo history this October 18-20, 2024. Tickets go live on April 1, with limited-time discounted ticket, hotel, merchandise, and celebrity meet and greet packages. Tickets and more can be purchased at richmondtattooconvention.com. 

Ink Master winner, judge, and internationally acclaimed tattoo artist Ryan Ashley is returning to Richmond, Virginia as the official co-host of the festival for the first time. The Richmond tattoo event is the only tattoo convention that Ryan Ashley is co-hosting. She joins Richmond-based Jesse Smith, who has been hosting the festival for nearly a decade. 

“The Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention has so much significance in the tattoo industry because of its long history,” says Ashley. “It’s also the best event for fans to get up close and personal with so many incredible artists and witness amazing pieces happening live. I’m so excited to play a role in bringing the world’s best artists and unique experiences to our attendees!”

Along with fellow Ink Master winner, world-renowned tattoo and mural artist Jesse Smith, Ryan Ashley has already filled the convention’s lineup with 150 internally celebrated artists. Some artists are only in the East Coast area for this Convention in October. That means, it’s the only chance to see celebrities and artists including Deanna James, Bobby Johnson, Cleen Rock One, Angel Rose, Kevin Laroy. See a full line-up of artists here. 

“The Richmond Tattoo and Arts Convention is different because it’s an invite-only event,” says Smith. “Our goal is to showcase some of the best artists the Art world has to offer. This year we’re excited to expand our meet and greet experiences with celebrity artists. We introduced this element to the event in 2023 and it was a big success.”

During the 3-day Convention, guests can schedule tattoo appointments with our attending artists and more. Guests can also chat and interact with artists at their booths and take part in unique and intimate experiences. Convention-goers can purchase Expansion Packages for exclusive, private meet-and-greets with Ink Master stars like Ryan Ashley. Sign up for texts to get early access to these limited-edition celebrity experiences when they are released.

“The energy and the in-person face-to-face exchange of such positive vibes really lifts me up and allows me to realize how many people I have the honor of influencing,” says Ashley. “My fans keep me motivated to be my best self, not just for ME but for the world. I’m excited for other attending artists to experience the same.”

Ryan Ashley recently appeared as a judge in Paramount’s Ink Master Season 15, which crowned featured convention artist Bobby Johnson as the reigning champion. Ryan Ashley won Ink Master’s season 8 competition and has hosted the Ink Master’s Angels, judged Ink Master’s Grudge Match, and more. 

There will be dozens of other unique attractions including daily tattoo competitions, artisan exhibitors, fashion boutiques, comedy competitions, kid-friendly activities, and a Live Art for Charity event, featuring globally recognized artists of varying disciplines. 

“Every year, we work to curate the entire Convention experience so it’s even more special than the year prior,” says Smith. “This year, with Ryan Ashley’s help, we’re setting the bar high for the Richmond community and for the entire tattoo industry. We’re excited to welcome the world to Richmond and Richmond to the world.”

 

Learn More About the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention

 

Purchase Tickets. 

 

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