ABOUT SYDNEY TATTOO CONVENTION

BUILT BY THE INDUSTRY.
FOR THE INDUSTRY.

An artist-led, not-for-profit celebration of tattooing, art and community.

OUR STORY

Sydney Tattoo Convention was created with a simple belief: tattooing deserves to be celebrated as an art form, and the people who dedicate their lives to it deserve an event that genuinely represents them.

Created by three organisers — Katie Bailey, Todd Bailey and Rhys Gordon — Sydney Tattoo Convention brings together tattoo artists, collectors, creatives and the wider community inside one of Sydney's most iconic venues, Sydney Town Hall.

We wanted to create something that goes beyond the traditional tattoo expo. A place where exceptional tattooing sits alongside exhibitions, education, history, conversation and artistic collaboration.

A convention that celebrates established artists while making room for emerging talent, regional tattooers and the next generation of the industry.


MORE THAN A TATTOO EXPO

WHY WE STARTED

Tattooing is an incredible form of contemporary art, built on generations of craftsmanship, creativity, dedication and cultural history.

Yet despite the talent and commitment within our industry, tattooing hasn't always received the recognition it deserves.

We set out to create an event that puts tattooing and the people behind it at the centre.

Somewhere artists can share knowledge, build connections, showcase their work and feel proud to be part of something created with their community in mind.

We also wanted to open the doors to a wider audience, giving people the opportunity to experience tattooing as art and meet the people who dedicate their lives to the craft.

Our goal has never been simply to fill a room with tattoo booths. It's to create something meaningful for the people who make up this industry.

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE EVENT

THE THREE ORGANISERS

Sydney Tattoo Convention is brought together by three people who share a passion for tattooing, art and the community behind it.

Together, we work to create an event that celebrates the craft, brings people together and supports the future of tattooing in Australia.

Katie Bailey, Sydney Tattoo Convention organiser
KATIE BAILEY
Rhys Gordon, Sydney Tattoo Convention organiser
RHYS GORDON
Todd Bailey, Sydney Tattoo Convention organiser
TODD BAILEY

ART, EDUCATION & COMMUNITY

PROUDLY NOT-FOR-PROFIT

Sydney Tattoo Convention is presented by Australian Tattoo Arts Ltd, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting, celebrating and promoting tattooing as a respected art form.

Our vision extends beyond the annual convention itself.

Through artist talks, exhibitions, films, educational opportunities, creative programming and industry collaboration, we aim to contribute something meaningful to Australian tattoo culture.

We believe in recognising the artists who have shaped tattooing's history, encouraging the next generation, and creating opportunities for connection and creative growth.


OUR COMMITMENT

LOOKING AHEAD

As Sydney Tattoo Convention continues to grow, our purpose remains the same.

To celebrate great tattooing. To respect the history of the craft. To support the artists who dedicate their lives to it.

And to create an event that our community can be proud to call its own.

Run by the industry.
Built for the community.