There are tattoo conventions… and then there’s Icons and Prodigies.

From May 8–11, 2025, Venice—already known as the city of romance and art—opened its arms to the global tattoo elite. But this wasn’t your typical ink show. Icons and Prodigies brought something completely different. Intimate. Curated. Inspirational. A fresh, game-changing approach to what a tattoo convention can be.

With 50 Icons and 250 Prodigies in attendance, the energy was electric from the very start. The event kicked off with a private VIP gathering where hugs were genuine, awards heartfelt, and the anticipation palpable. And then came three days of pure artistry at the highest level imaginable. No fillers, no fluff—just the best of the best.

But what truly made this event feel special was not only the overwhelming talent on display, but the human stories behind the machines.

One standout moment? Watching Shamack work his magic on Pierik, a dedicated client all the way from Paris. Over three intense days, they collaborated on an intricate biomechanical piece that will eventually become part of a full leg sleeve. And let’s be clear—Pierik is no casual tattoo tourist. He’s a hardcore biomech fan who already sports a full sleeve by Shamack on one arm. Their reunion at Icons and Prodigies felt less like a session and more like a creative ritual.

This wasn’t just about getting tattooed—it was about continuing a visual journey that’s been years in the making. Seeing them together again, sharing laughs between sessions, reminded us that at its heart, tattooing is deeply personal. A shared story between artist and collector.

And for Shamack, the event brought more than just work. It was a rare and cherished chance to reconnect with old friends from the industry. Friends he hadn’t seen in years. Moments of spontaneous joy, shared dinners, late-night conversations about art and life—it’s these small but meaningful interactions that elevated the event from great to unforgettable.

Set against the dreamlike backdrop of Venice, the convention felt almost surreal at times. The canals, the history, the creative spirit everywhere—it was the perfect setting for such an elevated gathering.

Tattoo legends like Bob Tyrrell, Ryan Smith, Kensho the Second, Robert Hernandez, Rich Harris, and Paul Talbot were among the many who contributed to the mind-blowing atmosphere. Every booth felt like a gallery. Every conversation sparked inspiration.

So yes—Icons and Prodigies was a fantastic event. But more than that, it was a celebration. Of craft, of community, and of connection. In a world full of lookalike conventions, this one stood in a league of its own.

We left Venice full of ideas, memories, and excitement for what’s to come. And if this edition was any indication, the next one will be absolutely unmissable.

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In May 2025, Shamack, the renowned tattoo artist from Inkden Tattoo Studio, embarked on an inspiring journey to New York City. Accompanied by Anna, the duo immersed themselves in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, blending artistry with exploration.

Their adventure began with a guest spot at a Brooklyn tattoo studio, marking Shamack’s first opportunity to share his artistry in the heart of NYC. The studio buzzed with excitement as clients eagerly awaited their sessions with the master tattooist. Shamack’s unique style and meticulous attention to detail left a lasting impression on both clients and fellow artists.

Beyond the studio, Shamack and Anna delved into the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. From the towering heights of the Empire State Building to the artistic enclaves of Brooklyn, they captured the essence of New York through their lens. Their Instagram updates showcased the city’s dynamic energy, offering followers a glimpse into their urban explorations.

A highlight of their trip was participating in the prestigious Empire State Tattoo Expo. Held at the New York Hilton Midtown, the event gathered top tattoo artists from around the globe. Shamack’s booth attracted a steady stream of visitors, all eager to witness his artistry firsthand. The expo provided a platform for creative exchange, allowing Shamack to connect with peers and enthusiasts alike.

As their time in New York drew to a close, Shamack and Anna reflected on the experiences that had enriched their journey. The city’s relentless pace, cultural diversity, and artistic vibrancy had left an indelible mark on them. They departed with a renewed sense of inspiration, eager to infuse their future projects with the energy of the Big Apple.

For more insights into Shamack’s artistic endeavors and travels, follow their journey on Instagram: @the_travelink_

We’re currently looking for Tattoo artist’s and a Body Piercer to join our team here at Inkden.

(This opportunity is only for artists who are eligible to work in the UK.)

This is not an apprenticeship.

Must haves:

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a Tattoo Studio

• An extensive portfolio to showcase your work

• Self motivated

• No Drama

This is NOT an apprenticeship.

What’s included:

• Large online presence

• Reception/Receptionist (bookings)

• Well furnished station

• Well equipped Autoclave room

• High standard of equipment

• Support from highly experienced artists

We offer!

• A flexible working environment

• Weekly rent basis or %

• Disposables/useables provided

• Social media advertising

If you are interested in any of these positions email us at

Inkden.tattoo@gmail.com

Please send us your CV, previous experience, social media accounts and portfolio.

After three years at Inkden Tattoo Studio in Blackpool, Adrianna Urban and Chris Strach are moving to York. They will be with us until April 15, after which they will continue their tattoo journey in a new city.

Although they are relocating, we’re happy to say that they will still visit us for guest spots.

However, if you’d like to book a session with Chris or Adrianna before their move, now is the time—after April 15, you’ll have to wait until their next visit.

The Inkden Team would like to thank Chris and Adrianna for three years of collaboration, shared conventions, studio life, and creative projects.

Since they’ll be back as guests, this isn’t goodbye—it’s see you soon!

We wish them the best on this new chapter and look forward to welcoming them back in the future.

For bookings and inquiries, contact us directly.

53ff Albert Road, Blackpool, FY1 4PW

07957 021702

inkden.tattoo@gmail.com

We are pleased to announce that Daren Cosgrove will be returning to Inkden Tattoo Studio in June. Known for his detailed and versatile tattoo work, Daren has previously impressed our clients with his skill and professionalism.

This is a great opportunity to book a session with him and get a custom tattoo designed to your vision. Appointments with guest artists tend to fill up quickly, so we recommend securing your spot as soon as possible.

For bookings and inquiries, please contact us directly. We look forward to welcoming Daren back to our studio.

Inkden Tattoo Studio

53ff Albert Road, Blackpool, FY1 4PW

07957 021702

inkden.tattoo@gmail.com

At Inkden, we’re thrilled to announce that our talented artist Shamack is about to embark on an incredible journey to showcase his biomechanical tattoo skills on an international stage.

Shamack has been invited to participate in the Calgary Tattoo Show in Canada, where he will represent Inkden Tattoo Studio and demonstrate his expertise in biomechanical designs to a global audience.

For those who aren’t familiar with Shamack’s work, his biomechanical tattoos are truly one-of-a-kind. With an eye for intricate details and a passion for transforming skin into stunning, 3D-like artworks, Shamack is a master of blending organic and mechanical elements into cohesive, captivating designs.

This is a huge opportunity for him, and we couldn’t be more excited! However, before he heads off to Canada, Shamack still has a few limited appointments available for his loyal clients here in Blackpool. If you’ve been considering a biomechanical masterpiece, now is the time to act! His schedule is filling up fast, and this is your last chance to book a session before he leaves for his Canadian adventure.

How to Book Your Session:

If you want to secure your spot and get a jaw-dropping biomechanical tattoo from Shamack, don’t wait! Simply reach out to us via:

📞 Phone: 07957 021702
✉️ Email: inkden.tattoo@gmail.com
Or stop by the studio at:
📍 53ff Albert Road, Blackpool, FY1 4PW

And don’t forget to follow Shamack’s journey on Instagram via @the_travelink_, where he’ll be sharing videos and behind-the-scenes moments from the Calgary Tattoo Show and beyond.

Don’t miss this chance to get a truly unique biomechanical tattoo before Shamack’s schedule is fully booked. We can’t wait to see what incredible designs he creates next!

At Inkden Tattoo Studio, we are thrilled to have hosted the immensely talented Daren Cosgrove as our guest artist. Daren, renowned for his intricate designs and artistic versatility, brought his unique style to our studio, creating stunning works of art for our clients. His stay with us has been an inspiring journey, and we’re excited to share some highlights from his time here.

A Warm Welcome to Daren Cosgrove
From the moment Daren joined us, it was clear that his exceptional talent and passion for tattoo artistry would leave a lasting impact. His portfolio, filled with detailed and dynamic pieces, speaks to his mastery of various styles. Whether it’s realism, abstract, or illustrative designs, Daren’s ability to adapt and innovate sets him apart in the world of tattoo art.

Captivating Artworks and Unique Styles
During his stay, Daren created numerous pieces that captured the hearts of our clients. His approach is both meticulous and creative, ensuring that each tattoo is a personalized masterpiece. Clients praised his attention to detail and the care he took in understanding their vision, resulting in tattoos that exceeded their expectations.

Looking Forward
As Daren Cosgrove’s guest artist stint comes to an end, we look back with gratitude and admiration for the remarkable contributions he made to our studio. His artistic brilliance and dedication have left an indelible mark on Inkden Tattoo Studio, and we eagerly look forward to the possibility of welcoming him back in the future.

For those who missed the opportunity to get tattooed by Daren, stay tuned to our social media channels and website for updates on future guest artists and events. We are committed to bringing the best talents from around the world to provide our clients with exceptional tattoo experiences.

Connect with Us
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on our latest news, events, and artist collaborations. If you’re interested in booking a session or have any inquiries, feel free to contact us directly.

Thank you for being part of the Inkden Tattoo Studio community. We can’t wait to continue this artistic journey with all of you!

Looking to get inked? Now’s your chance! Book your tattoo session with Daren Cosgrove today. We still have a few slots available. For more information or to reserve your spot, feel free to reach out to our studio, Inkden. Let’s bring your tattoo ideas to life!

To book, message us, call 07957 021702,

or email: inkden.tattoo@gmail.com

Inkden Tattoo Studio

53ff Albert Road

Blackpool,

FY1 4PW

So, you’ve decided to venture into the captivating world of tattoo artistry. You’re ready to embrace the needles, ink, and endless possibilities that the tattoo industry offers. Yet, in a world brimming with talented tattooists, what sets apart a good artist from a great one? To achieve greatness in tattoo artistry, you’ll need more than just technical proficiency; you’ll need unwavering dedication, commitment, and the constant pursuit of improvement.

Understanding the Path Ahead

Before you dive headfirst into this thrilling yet demanding profession, it’s crucial to understand the profound commitment required. Being a tattoo artist isn’t just a cool and rebellious gig; it’s a lifestyle. The exhilarating perks come hand in hand with arduous hours and an all-encompassing devotion to the craft. Thus, it’s imperative to weigh the excitement against the dedication the profession mandates.

Embarking on the Apprenticeship Journey

To become a bona fide professional tattoo artist, you’ll need to embark on the rite of passage known as the apprenticeship. Learning from a seasoned mentor is perhaps the most effective way to hone your skills. As experienced tattooists will attest, the journey of learning never truly concludes. It’s an ongoing evolution. During your apprenticeship, be prepared to work diligently under the guidance of your mentor.

The Unceasing Pursuit of Improvement

Mastery in the art of tattooing is a dynamic, unending pursuit. The best tattoo artists understand that the learning process is perpetual. Improvement is their lifelong goal. During your free time and even on your days off, let your artistic spirit soar. Draw incessantly, always striving to better your craft. This dedication is the hallmark of a great artist.

Building Your Portfolio

Your portfolio is your artistic resume. Depending on your experience level, your portfolio should encompass a comprehensive collection of your art and tattoos. In today’s digital age, platforms like Instagram and Facebook serve as the artist’s online portfolio. Follow in the footsteps of seasoned professionals, expanding your client base and network through these platforms.

Learning from the Masters

To enhance your skills and knowledge, immerse yourself in the works of renowned tattoo artists. Seek opportunities to be inked by those you admire. It may seem unconventional, but undergoing the tattooing process can be an invaluable educational experience. Each new tattoo adds layers to your understanding and strengthens your network.

The Life of a Tattoo Artist

To transcend the realm of good tattoo artistry and reach greatness, you must commit to living and breathing the art. This profession isn’t just a job; it’s a passion, a way of life. Be prepared to embrace every facet of it, with devotion and a relentless pursuit of perfection.

In Conclusion

Becoming a truly exceptional tattoo artist is an odyssey that demands continuous dedication. You’ll be a perpetual student of the art, learning from masters, honing your craft, and building a portfolio that showcases your evolving talent. With the right balance of commitment and creativity, you can rise from being merely good to becoming a legendary tattoo artist, leaving your indelible mark in the world of body art.