Eau Claire to Host First (Ever!) Tattoo Invitational

Getting a tattoo is different for everyone. For some, it’s an addicting and exhilarating experience that mixes adrenaline with the excitement of self-expression. For others, it’s a chance to breathe deeply and embrace the sensation of needle to skin. Tattooing combines creativity, art, and self-expression in the most permanent way, and it’s a reminder that beauty can sometimes lie outside our comfort zone. No matter where you fall, get excited for Eau Claire’s first ever tattoo invitational: a celebration of artistic expression and collaboration in a buzzing atmosphere.

Eau Claire’s first tattoo convention, the Sawdust City Tattoo Invitational, will be hosting 16 artists from across the country. Shannon Nordin, the owner of Old North Tattoo on North Barstow Street in Eau Claire, is organizing the event, and it will take place in the upper level of the Brewing Projekt, overlooking the Chippewa River and downtown – a scenic setting for an art-forward event. 

The event will be from April 19-21, 12pm-11pm on Friday and Saturday, and 12pm-8pm on Sunday. Not interested in getting a tattoo, but still interested in art by talented artists? Stop by and check out merchandise from the artists, including T-shirts, stickers, and art pieces. Plus, the event is free to attend and open to everyone.

“The event came about as a way to share with the people of Eau Claire what I love so much about tattooing, and the visiting artists what I love about Eau Claire,” says Shannon Nordin, the event’s organizer.

Artists will be available for appointments or walk ups, and there’s currently 16 artists that plan to be at the tattoo invitational. These include Brad Burkhart (Denver), Steven Skorjanec (Minneapolis), Collin Rigsby (Minneapolis), Zach Stuka (Madison), Bunny (Madison), Matt Gutierrez (Lacey, Washington), Brandon Swanson (Nashville), Jake Hodson (Nashville), Chris Cockrill (San Diego), Horisora (traveling), and Kenny Waizumi (San Diego), Jason Walstrom (Minneapolis), Kristjan Olson (San Diego), Arnie Santos (San Diego), and James Gunn (Minneapolis). Shannon will also be tattooing at the event. These artists range in style from fine line to traditional Japanese tebori, so you’ll definitely find something that resonates with you. 

So, get ready! Reach out to artists if you’re interested in booking time with them, and if you’re not in the mood for a tattoo, stop by the Brewing Projekt between April 19th and 21st to check out some cool art and experience the colliding of art, culture, and self-expression. See you there!

Check out @sawdustcitytattooinvitational on Instagram for more information.