What an incredible weekend! Last week, we at Hammersmith Tattoo London had the privilege of being part of the Big London Tattoo Show 2024 at the ExCel London Convention Centre on 7th and 8th September. We were proud to be represented by two of our brilliant tattoo artists, Marcelina (@marcelina.tattoo) and Tom (@stalstattoo). Marcy wowed the crowd with her stunning Fine Line and Black & Grey Neo-Traditional pieces, while Tom blew everyone away with his vibrant Colour Neo-Traditional and Dark Art creations.
A huge shout-out to our behind-the-scenes heroes, Carl (@not3bad_tattoos) and Emily (@bemtattoos), for keeping the energy high and helping us make it through the weekend with a smile. And, of course, a massive thank you to every one of you who stopped by our booth to chat and get tattooed. You made this event unforgettable!
We also want to extend our deepest thanks to our sponsor, Killer Ink Tattoo Supplies, for their ongoing support. Your high-quality supplies helped our artists perform at their very best throughout the weekend – we couldn’t have done it without you!
The weekend was packed with non-stop entertainment, including:
🔥 The Fuel Girls – Known for setting stages ablaze (literally!), this world-touring troupe has performed at some of the biggest festivals and events, including the legendary ‘Masters of Dirt’ stunt show. Their high-energy performances are an explosion of flames, choreography, and raw talent that left the crowd gasping for more.
🤡 Dirty Tattooed Circus Cabaret – Danger and comedy rolled into one! This powerhouse trio, featuring stand-up sensation Martin Mor, street performer Logy Logan, and the fabulous Missy Fortune, kept everyone on the edge of their seats with outrageous stunts and non-stop laughter. Fresh from sell-out shows at the Edinburgh Fringe and across Europe, they were a massive hit at the show.
🎢 Free Unlimited Fairground Rides – Who doesn’t love a free ride? From bumper cars to waltzers, the fairground rides added a whole new level of fun, and the best part? You could go on as many times as you liked!
🎮 Pinball Alley – Glastonbury’s iconic Pinball Pier made its third appearance at the show, bringing with it a treasure trove of retro arcade games. Run by Pinball Geoff and his partner-in-crime Mark, this arcade is more than just fun – it’s a deep dive into the history of the craft, with endless quirky conversations and game-time galore.
🔥 Shade Flamewater & Belle Circus – Fire conjuring, aerial artistry, and jaw-dropping contortion all wrapped into one mesmerising show. These international performers brought their unique brand of magic to London, leaving the audience completely entranced.
⚔️ Leah Debrincat – The queen of fusion belly dancing and sword balancing! Leah’s hypnotic performances have taken her around the globe, gracing stages from the West End to the MTV Awards alongside Taylor Swift. She left everyone speechless with her grace and power.
🎨 Live Art Battle Skin Art Smackdown – One of the most exciting parts of the weekend, this competition pitted artists from all genres in a high-energy battle where the audience crowned the winners. With prizes up for grabs and some truly weird and wonderful artwork being created, it was a must-see for anyone at the show.
🚗 Custom Car Display – Hot rods, muscle cars, and jaw-dropping restorations – members of the National Street Rod Association showcased their incredible cars, each a masterpiece of drivable art. A must-see for petrolheads and art lovers alike!
And that’s just a taste of what was on offer. With over 450 tattoo artists from across the UK and around the world competing in categories such as:
Best Small Black & Grey Tattoo
Best Small Colour Tattoo
Best Ornamental Tattoo
Best Traditional/Neo-Traditional Tattoo
Best Oriental Tattoo
Best Realism Portrait Tattoo
Best of Day (Saturday)
Best Script/Custom Lettering Tattoo
Best Large Black & Grey Tattoo
Best Large Colour Tattoo
Best Avant Garde Tattoo
Best of Show
Although we didn’t enter the competitions this year, we’re already gearing up for next year’s show, assembling a dream team that’s sure to turn heads.
A massive congrats to our dear friend Alex Roze (@jpeg_tattooer) for winning 1st Place in the Best Traditional/Neo-Traditional Tattoo category with his stunning Japanese-inspired anime tattoos, combined with his unique Neo-Traditional twist. We’re beyond proud!
We can’t wait to see you all again at The Big London Tattoo Show 2025 – this time, it’ll be a three-day extravaganza running from 19th to 21st September. Expect more entertainment, more fun, and, of course, even more tattoos. Get ready for the biggest show yet!