Ink Masters and Old Timers: Tradition vs Progress in Tattoo Conventions with Jesse Smith
Welcome back to another episode of our podcast, where we dive deep into the creative minds shaping the tattoo world. In this episode, we sit down with the incredibly talented and forward-thinking Jesse Smith, renowned tattoo artist and co-host of the Richmond Tattoo and Arts Convention. From his experience as an Ink Master contestant to his leadership in curating and evolving tattoo conventions, Jesse shares fascinating insights into the ever-changing landscape of tattoo culture and community.
Balancing Tradition and Innovation
Tattoo conventions have become a staple of the industry, a place for artists and enthusiasts to gather, showcase their work, and connect. But how do you keep such events fresh and exciting year after year? Jesse explains the delicate balance between honoring the tradition of tattoo culture while introducing innovative elements to keep conventions relevant.
Having taken over the Richmond Tattoo and Arts Convention in 2016, Jesse immediately recognized the need to appeal to both old-school artists who’ve been part of the community for decades and a new generation of artists and attendees inspired by shows like Ink Master. He candidly talks about the challenges he faces in balancing these expectations while staying true to his vision for the event.
"My goal is to get you guys booked up, and as much as some people might not like Ink Masters or the people on it, they bring people through the door," Jesse explains. He discusses the pushback from traditionalists but also shares his excitement about the future of tattoo conventions.
Creative Problem-Solving in a Changing Industry
One of the key takeaways from this episode is Jesse's passion for creativity—not just in his art but in his approach to organizing conventions. He talks about how he's constantly spitballing new ideas to make each convention unique and engaging, from interactive projects like the infamous tattoo “glory hole” to collaborative tattoo competitions where artists work together on large-scale pieces.
This drive to innovate stems from Jesse's belief that stagnation is the enemy of creativity. "If I'm not doing something different, what's the point?" he says, reflecting on his need to push boundaries, even in an industry as established as tattooing.
Elevating the Convention Experience
Jesse also touches on the practical side of running a convention—marketing to both artists and attendees. He shares his strategy for making conventions feel more like a curated experience rather than just another event. Whether it’s showcasing high-quality artists or bringing in tattoo celebrities, Jesse believes in making the experience memorable for everyone involved.
He explains the shift in how attendees now approach conventions, noting the rise of competition-driven artists who come to these events not only to ink new clients but also to create multi-day masterpieces that compete for “Best of Show.” It’s all about raising the bar and giving both artists and attendees something extraordinary to look forward to.
Building a Community Through Art
One of the most inspiring parts of the conversation is when Jesse opens up about the community aspect of tattoo conventions. While the focus is often on the art, these events also serve as an important gathering place for like-minded individuals. Artists feed off each other’s energy, learn from one another, and build lasting relationships that fuel their careers and creativity.
Jesse’s leadership at the Richmond Tattoo and Arts Convention exemplifies how conventions can be more than just places to get tattooed—they can be hubs for innovation, collaboration, and community building. His efforts to maintain this balance between tradition and modernity while promoting creativity are why his convention continues to be one of the most anticipated in the country.
Looking Forward
As the episode winds down, Jesse offers a glimpse into what’s next for the Richmond Tattoo and Arts Convention and the industry as a whole. He shares his excitement about future projects, new tattoo competition formats, and the evolving nature of tattoo conventions. One thing is clear: as long as Jesse is steering the ship, the tattoo convention scene will continue to thrive and evolve.
If you're an artist, an attendee, or simply a fan of tattoo culture, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Jesse Smith shows us that the tattoo world is as much about growth and innovation as it is about tradition, and that’s what makes it such an exciting space to be a part of.
