The Icelandic Tattoo Convention made a triumphant return for its 18th edition this weekend, drawing thousands of visitors to Gamla Bíó in downtown Reykjavík and marking one of the event’s most successful years to date.
According to organizer Össur Hafþórsson, owner of Reykjavík Ink, attendance far surpassed expectations.
“The turnout has been in the thousands,” he said. “People of all ages came out to get tattooed — we even had people in their seventies getting their very first tattoo.”
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The convention featured 30 tattoo artists from around the world, each showcasing their unique artistic style.
“If you can’t find your style here,” Hafþórsson noted, “it probably doesn’t exist.”
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When it comes to current tattoo trends, Hafþórsson said there’s something for everyone.
“Classic ‘Old School’ never goes out of fashion,” he explained, “but ‘Fine-line’ tattoos have become extremely popular recently.”
He also pointed to an unexpected revival: “Believe it or not, the ‘Tribal’ tattoo is making a comeback.”
Changing Perceptions
Since its inception in 2006, the Icelandic Tattoo Convention has reflected the shifting cultural attitudes toward body art.
“Getting a tattoo is much more accepted now than it used to be,” Hafþórsson said. “These days, it’s seen more like buying a beautiful piece of jewelry.”
He added that modern tattooing often goes beyond aesthetics.
“More and more people are choosing designs with personal meaning — it’s not just about how it looks, but what it represents.”
As the convention wraps up another successful year, it’s clear that Iceland’s tattoo culture continues to evolve — and thrive — with growing public enthusiasm and artistic innovation.
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