

Thousands of needles, countless artists, and one weekend full of ink, art, and expression. Together with Henk Schiffmacher, Forum is organizing a Tattoo Convention!
What to expect?
During this convention, you’ll meet national and international tattoo artists, each with their own style and expertise – from old school to fine line, and from blackwork to hyperrealism. Watch them work live, ask them questions about their techniques, and who knows… you might just leave with a fresh tattoo.
Whether you’re already covered in ink, considering your first design, or simply curious about the art form – everyone is welcome.
✍Live tattoo sessions
Around forty of the world’s best tattoo artists will be present and tattooing live on-site. Visitors can watch them at work and even book a session during the convention. Name dropping a few of the great artist: Chris Garver, Filip Leu, Loretta Leu, Titine Leu, Lal Hardy, Valerie Vargas, Taku Oshima, Permanent Mark, Frederik Moens, Luke Atkinson, Mick Zurich, Herpianto Hendra, Paul Dobleman, Henning Jörgensen en Freddy Corbin.
🤘Demonstrations and talks
In addition to tattooing, there will be various demonstrations and talks about the art and history of tattooing. And there will be a daily interview by Erik Dijkstra with Henk Schiffmacher. As co-organiser, Henk will take us through the convention and will put a number of tatoo artists in the spotlight.
🎬Films and music
The program also includes film screenings and live music performances, all tied to the convention’s theme.
🖼️TATTOO exhibition
Every convention ticket includes access to the Tattoo exhibition, on view at Forum from 28 June 2025 to 4 January 2026. Curated in collaboration with the Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac and Henk Schiffmacher, the exhibition showcases the fascinating history and recent developments of tattoo art.
🔥Want to stay up to date on all convention updates? Follow us on Instagram via tattooconventie.forumgroningen.

See who's coming to Groningen to bring the ink!
Want to get tattooed during the convention?
Buy your convention ticket and send your favorite artist a DM on Instagram to book an appointment!
Day and evening tickets are available for the Tattoo Convention.
Don’t want to miss a thing? Go for a weekend ticket!
Every ticket includes access to the Tattoo exhibition.
There are no new dates planned (yet) for Tattoo Convention.

Henk Schiffmacher is a tattoo artist, historian, painter and writer. Schiffmacher is globally known for his unique collection of objects related to the history of tattooing. He has also authored more than twenty books, including the highly acclaimed 1000 Tattoos and Tattoos 1730s–1970s (Taschen Books). His international clientele of world stars, including the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pearl Jam, Kurt Cobain, Lady Gaga, Robbie Williams, Willy de Ville and Herman Brood, also contribute to his fame. Additionally, Schiffmacher produced a documentary on the origins of tattooing, which has been shown worldwide.
© Henk Schiffmacher (c) ANP / Hollandse Hoogte - Gerard Wessel
The Forum is an accessible meeting place for everyone curious about today’s world and the possibilities of tomorrow. With international exhibitions, museum Storyworld, five cinema rooms, the library, Smartlab and a rooftop terrace with stunning views, the Forum invites everyone to explore current developments with an open mind and get surprised and inspired.
