Some tattoo artists are voicing concerns that the rise of "bottomless" tattoo events, often advertised on social media for as little as £150 for a three-hour session, is devaluing their profession. These events, which offer unlimited small tattoos within a set time and price, are being criticized for encouraging irresponsibility and a frivolous approach to permanent body art.
Tanya Buxton, owner of Paradise Tattoo Studio in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, described the trend as "encouraging irresponsibility." She emphasized that tattooing is not intended to be a gimmick. Buxton noted that the popularity of these events has been partly fueled by practitioners of permanent makeup who are expanding into fine-line tattooing, seeking a constant stream of new clients.
"They're trying to find new clients all the time," Buxton stated. "That's why they're starting to do these tiny tattoos." This trend, she added, is pressuring other tattoo studios to lower their prices, leading to a general expectation of cheap tattoos among the public.
The proliferation of inexpensive, small tattoos has also led to an increase in demand for tattoo removal services. Specialists in tattoo erasure are reporting a rise in individuals seeking to remove these minimally invasive tattoos.
While some artists see these events as a gateway for new clients to explore tattooing, others worry about the long-term impact on the industry's perception and the skill involved. The emphasis on speed and low cost, they argue, overshadows the artistry, precision, and client consultation that are fundamental to professional tattooing.