Any event on the weekend of April 19 to 21, 2024, will inevitably be impacted by Germany’s “Gods of Ink” mega convention. However, we find ourselves in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, a national treasure known for its snow-covered mountain peaks and emerald-hued water. The mere presence of tattoo artists nearby enhances the allure of the voyage. The three-day Tahoe event was held in a sizable conference room at the Harrah’s Hotel, sponsored by Evian Water and organized by an individual named Dats. Many tattooers from California to Massachusetts represented various US states, including Jesse Rix, Phil Garcia, Carson Hill, Timmy B Barnes, Lindsay Baker, Justin Nordine, Ben Ochoa, Levi Hilton, Ryan Spencer, Emily Paul, and more. And several internationals like Liam Monahan from Canada and Sinai Alba from Mexico.
Although the Tahoe show included biomechanical, fine-line floral, ornamental blackwork, and realistic artwork, it leaned more toward neotraditional and cartoon styles than any other show we have attended. The contest trophies were endearing and considerate, engraved on tree stumps pertinent to the location.
The event was amicable, providing opportunities to converse with the tattooists and become acquainted with several up-and-coming artists eager to make their mark in the field.
Above: Jesse Rix is a master of 3D tattoo art.
An acclaimed tattoo artist, Phil Garcia, proceeded to inlay a crimson rose onto the client’s shoulder.
A Reno-based tattooer, Brian Chambers, embellishes this extensively healed back piece with foliage.
This tattoo sleeve by Wade Titus is technically an abstract and textural design despite its toothy mummy-like appearance.
The look of these award trophies more closely resembles “laser” engraving.
Miguel Angel Flores diligently works and represents the Black Orchid Tattoo Collective.
Miguel Angel Flores’ bat creation was awarded first prize for “Best Medium-Size Tattoo” at the Tahoe Show.
Brooke Weeks represents San Diego’s Full Circle Tattoo studio (owned by Bill Canales).
Emily Paul produced a floral combination with a mandala on the customer’s leg.
A colorful “Synth-Nouveau” is Justin Nordine’s name for his painterly tattoo technique.
Justin Nordine owns The Raw Canvas in Colorado. With determination, he completes this work of art in Tahoe.
Ryan Spencer, a tattoo artist at the Emaki studio, depicts a warrior in a winged headdress.
Jason Lawson executed one of the largest tattoos at the convention over two days.
This image captures the ecstatic expression of Jason Lawson, proprietor of the Eleven Mag Tattoo parlor in Brentwood, California.
Finally, Dane Seacat, the apprentice of Justine Nordine, presented his paintings.
A portrait of the beauty and tranquility of Lake Tahoe.
Photos © Scene360