Newbury tattoo convention will be bigger and better

The Newbury Tattoo Convention is back for its second year and plans to be even bigger.

The two-day art convention is the brainchild of Newbury tattoo artist Lee Priddy.

Mr Priddy, of Full Power Studios on London Road, has attended and tattooed at festivals and conventions in the past but now he’s built his own community in Newbury.

The convention – at Newbury Racecourse – will feature art stalls, live tattooing, artwork being sold and live music from local bands.

Last year the event at the Corn Exchange attracted around 800 attendees over the two days but this year Mr Priddy is hoping to double it.

He has increased the number of tattooists from last year’s 25 to 42 and traders from five to 20.

Mr Priddy, who has been a tattoo artist for around a decade, stressed the importance of bringing artists together and establishing a strong alternative scene community.

He said: “The Tattoo Convention has filled a gap for the alternative scene in Berkshire, especially in Newbury.

“We have always had an alternative scene here and I think locals have been really supportive of something that resonates so much with them.

“We have built a community and connected with people in ways that we have never had before.”

Newbury band Big Drink will be playing on Saturday followed by London band Tova on Sunday.

Other acts include TV Yellow, Giles, 4 Fox Sake, We are Folding Stars and Leah Toklsdorf.

The event will fall on August 5 and August 6 at Newbury Racecourse.

More information can be found on the Newbury Tattoo Convention website https://newburytattooconvention.com/

Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.