Here is a tattoo by Joe Capone. He was on the TV program “Ink Master.” (Photo Provided)
The Locked Up Tattoo Convention, Dark Carnival and the Old West Virginia Penitentiary are scheduled for June 16-18 in Moundsville.
Convention organizer Shawn Alexander from South Point, Ohio, said he had held exotic animal expos and oddities at the location. However, now COVID-19 has lifted pandemic restrictions, he wants to host also a tattoo convention.
More than 100 tattoo artists will participate and tattoo via appointment at the indoor/outdoor festival. There will also be several tattoo contests and dark carnival performers like sword swallowers or fire swallowers.
Hours for the three-day festival are 12 noon to 10 pm on Friday and Saturday and 12 noon to 7 pm on Sunday.
The cost to enter the event is $50 for all three days or $20 per day online at wonders-oddities-expos.ticketleap.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the door for $25—free entry for children under 12.
Alexander stated that tattoo artists nationwide, including those sponsored by tattoo care products such as Urban’s Edge or Gratitude, will attend. Joe Capone, the star of Ink Master on TV, will also participate.
Alexander explained that they do many events in the Ohio Valley. This is one of the few places where you can find so many talented artists in one location. With all the strangeness, it should make for a fun weekend.
You can see the work of featured tattooists on “Locked Up Tattoo Convention”‘s Facebook page.
Amanda Wolverton is the general manager at the West Virginia Penitentiary. She said that besides hosting the tattoo convention, the jail would host other events and regular tours this summer.
Marshall County School District, for instance, will hold its Back to School Fair in July on the 26th. Marshall County Panthers Gun Bash will be held on August 5 by the Marshall County Panthers.
The paranormal convention will occur at the Penn on September 9, from 11 am to 5 pm. This annual event features vendors, speakers, and an overnight investigation for adults 18 and older.
Wolverton stated that the Para-Con would feature vendors who sell oddities, resin arts, jewellery, and more.
You can purchase tickets in advance for $20 at www.wvpentours.com or the door with a credit or debit card.
Those who would like to apply to be a vendor at the Para-Con event can email [email protected].
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