Ink Differently

Tattoos are artistic outlets for creativity and self-expression, but the canvas is human flesh, so there's slightly more at stake for a tattoo artist than there is for a watercolorist. The St. Louis Old School Tattoo Expo is here to help. Artists and industry professionals can broaden their knowledge and sharpen skills as well as draw inspiration from peers through presentations and seminars, as well as shop the newest equipment and supplies on the market. Ink enthusiasts, meanwhile, can meet tattoo artists from across the country, peruse body jewelry and enter contests, including the "Best of Show," which judges the best tattoo inked at the Expo that weekend. The winning tattooed person gets a custom guitar, and the artist earns a custom-made Old School Tattoo Expo tattoo machine. The St. Louis Old School Tattoo Expo takes place Friday through Sunday (November 2 through 4) at the Ramada Plaza (811 North Ninth Street; www.oldschooltattooexpo.com). Hours are 2 to 10 p.m. Friday, noon to 10 p.m. Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $15 to $65.
Nov. 2-4, 2012