Tattoo artists and enthusiasts have gathered to celebrate the artform as the Brighton Tattoo Convention celebrates its 15th anniversary.

People from across the country have gathered at the Brighton Centre this weekend to celebrate tattoos and get their latest inks done.

The annual convention is celebrating its 15th year and included dozens of different artists showing off their work and etching new designs onto people’s bodies.

Jamie, who came from London to the convention, said: “This is the first time I’ve been here and I’m here to start my sleeve. I told my artist I’m happy to be his project for the weekend.

The Argus: Jamie at Brighton Tattoo ConventionJamie at Brighton Tattoo Convention (Image: The Argus)

“Tattoos are becoming very popular these days and its great to get everyone in one place.

“I’m ready to just walk around and watch everyone else getting tattooed after this. Anyone who says it isn’t painful, it is, so it’ll be nice to see everyone else in pain instead.”

The Argus: A man being tattooed at the Brighton Tattoo ConventionA man being tattooed at the Brighton Tattoo Convention (Image: Mike Burnell (iso400.com))

The tattoo convention took over the Brighton Centre floor with different artists showing off their designs as well as setting up studios in their stalls.

Hundreds of tattoo enthusiasts watched as other people got their latest designs inked onto their skin.

The Argus: A man being tattooed at Brighton Tattoo ConventionA man being tattooed at Brighton Tattoo Convention (Image: Mike Burnell (iso400.com))

The convention began in 2007 and was first held at Brighton Racecourse but has since moved into the Brighton Centre as it has grown.

Michelle Duncan, who came to the convention from Portsmouth, said: “I just love looking at all the different tattoos and artists.

The Argus: Michelle Duncan at Brighton Tattoo ConventionMichelle Duncan at Brighton Tattoo Convention (Image: The Argus)

“There’s so many artists to choose from. I’ve been to lots of other conventions but this is my first time in Brighton.

“It brings everyone together, the tattoo industry is such a close community.


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“I haven’t got much space but I’ve got a little space under my chin that I want to get tattooed.”

The convention also included live music and exhibitions celebrating the history of the tattoo industry.

Awards were also handed out for the best tattoos in a number of categories including small and large healed tattoos as well as ornamental and black and grey designs.

Brighton Tattoo Convention is taking place on Saturday and Sunday, February 24 and 25.