Returning to the True Blue Tattoo Convention this year felt like a homecoming. Being a part of it for the second time, the energy was palpable. With an impressive roster of 110+ artists showcasing their skills, the convention was buzzing with more talent than ever.

Once again, the foundational designs were crafted by the unmistakable Bob Geerts, affectionately known as Bobeus. His visionary style set the tone, providing a robust base for my contributions.

For this edition, I dove deeper into the design pool, curating two distinct styles. The primary design, an American traditional sun, was saturated with the rich hues of red, black, and yellow. This motif became the face of the convention, gracing everything from posters and flyers to social media posts and stickers. Its resonance was unmistakable, serving as a beacon for attendees and artists alike.

As the sun set, the design transformed. For the afterparties and banner exposition, I played with our original palette: red morphed into black, yellow took on the fiery shade of red, and the original red illuminated as yellow. This “night-time” version evoked a different mood, resonating with the allure of evening gatherings and nocturnal festivities.

A unique touch to the design narrative this year was the introduction of stickers. Beyond their primary design, these stickers bore a mesmerizing hologram effect, adding a touch of magic to the already enchanting aesthetic.

Our inspiration, consistent with our previous collaboration, was the timeless charm of vintage matchboxes. The intricate details, earthy colors, and tactile elegance of these old-world wonders continued to guide our design journey, weaving the past into the present.

In essence, my second rendezvous with the True Blue Tattoo Convention was a celebration of continuity and evolution. Building on the foundations of the past, while simultaneously exploring fresh nuances, made this experience truly unforgettable.

ClientTrue Blue Tattoo ConventionServiceGraphic DesignYear2023Linktrueblue-tattoo.com