Kokova Magazine

The 9th London International Tattoo Convention, the greatest, most respected and prestigious body art convention in the world, is to be held on 27th, 28th and 29th September 2013 at Tobacco Dock, 50 Porters Walk, London E1W 2SF.

Well over 300 of the finest tattoo artists in the world have already been accredited, including TV stars such as Ami James (Miami Ink & NY Ink), Chris Nunez (Miami Ink & Ink Master USA), Tim Hendricks (NY Ink), Oliver Peck (Ink Master USA), Tattoo Baby (Ink Master USA) and Juan Salgado (Ink Master USA).

Established in 2005, The London Tattoo Convention has evolved into a gigantic, buzzing, full-on, world record breaking event, encompassing multiple aspects of tattoo culture and boasting a huge range of mind-blowing alternative lifestyle attractions and entertainment.

Each year, the global Tattoo Life Publication organizers have strived to outdo the previous event's tumultuous success, and 2013's extravaganza promises the richest smorgasbord of essential live musical acts, spectacular alternative entertainers and inspirational exhibitions ever.

Amazing world class acts and alternative performances, from burlesque to sword swallowing, striptease and trapeze, are set to enthral on the Main Stage, underneath Tobacco Dock's magnificent 19th Century glass dome, which crowns the huge vaulted glass roof of this historic building.

A massive hit at last year's extravaganza, the Nerdy Stripper will be back to thrill the audience with her unique, breath taking, raunchy nerdgasm spectacle.

Janet Fischietto, the seductive Italian "30's Circus Burlesque" performer whose stage character embodies the "tattooed lady" of the circus, will shimmer on the main stage all three days of the convention. Each and every detail of her outfits, choice of tattoo subjects, music and attitude reflect the multicoloured, dreamy "30's Circus Burlesque" style. Definitely a 'must see'.

The International London Tattoo Convention will be the first venue to exhibit the prints from the Aeons-Tulpa installation. Aeons-Tulpa is renowned Spanish tattoo artist Jondix's first solo exhibition of a singular body of work. The show's visual imagery is a metaphysical exploration of the artist's interior world; Jondix conceptualizes Aeons-Tulpa as both "place" and a "state of mind".

Nine prints are arranged in rows and columns of three to create the shape of a square, with the tenth print displayed off to the side. Central to the installation is the idea of energy and connection, where each of the ten prints are not only physically connected, but also spiritually connected to the artist.

This year Jamaica Inn will host a "Golden Ale" Beer Festival with favourites from Dark Star, Surrey Hills, Crouch Vale, Hop Back and Salopian Breweries to name but a few alongside the infamous Brew Dog and their heralded Punk IPA. An amazing selection of "Real Ciders and Perry's" will complement the atmosphere being kicked started by the legendary Northern Soul DJ Tony Class spinning tunes from his massive and varied repertoire until 01.00am

As always, the biggest show on offer is provided by the visitors themselves, who will compete in the Tattoo contests for 'Best Of Day', 'Best Back Piece', 'Best Colours', 'Best Black And Grey' and 'Best Of Show'.

A wide range of food and drink - catering for all tastes - will be available on site from restaurants on the ground floor and the outside food court, plus various traditional East End themed pubs and a dedicated real ale bar, all licensed until 1.00am, on the lower vault floor.

For more info go to www.thelondontattooconvention.com from which advance tickets are available priced at £20 for Friday, £30 for Saturday, £25 for Sunday, or £55 for a weekend pass.

Advance tickets, allowing entrance at 11.30 each day, may also be purchased. Admission for visitors under 14 is free, provided they are accompanied by an adult.