Bizarre Bazaar Tattoo Convention Opened in Marietta

The three-day event features over 100 artists and supports a local charity through a pinup fundraiser.

Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Special Interest

Bold vector editorial illustration of a tattoo machine and ink bottle, representing the professional tools used in the tattoo trade. — The Bizarre Bazaar Tattoo Convention opened Friday in Marietta, featuring over 100 professional artists aiming to highlight tattooing as a skilled trade. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe annual local events help your community's small businesses thrive?

The Bizarre Bazaar Tattoo Convention began Friday at the Tower Event & Conference Center. This year’s edition moved to a larger venue to accommodate more than 100 professional tattoo artists from around the globe.

Why it matters

Organizer Chase Chovan expanded the event to better showcase tattooing as a professional trade. The convention also aims to challenge lingering social stereotypes surrounding the industry through community engagement.

The convention hosts between 110 and 115 artists representing regions from Italy to Puerto Rico. Organizer Chase Chovan brings 37 years of industry experience to the management of the event.

The players

Chase Chovan

He is the event organizer who has worked in the tattoo industry for 37 years.

EVE Inc.

This organization is the beneficiary of the convention's pinup contest fundraiser.

Rich Thomas

He operates the Ohio Tattoo Museum in Bidwell, Ohio, and began collecting memorabilia in the 1980s.

Hot Tomato Portraits

This entity serves as the official sponsor for the convention's pinup contest.

The details

Located at the Tower Event & Conference Center, the gathering includes various competitions and a pinup contest fundraiser. Public voting for the fundraiser occurs via online QR codes, with all proceeds benefiting EVE Inc.

The convention began on Friday.
The pinup contest fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday from 2-4 p.m.
The event concludes on Sunday.
Rich Thomas started collecting tattoo-related items in the 1980s.
The original market concept was formed seven years ago.

Industry Dynamics

This convention mirrors the broader professionalization of the tattoo industry, which has moved from subculture status to mainstream trade acceptance. By expanding to a larger venue, the event follows a trend of increasing scale for specialized regional trade shows.

Visitors can access the convention at the Tower Event & Conference Center throughout the weekend. The public can also participate in the EVE Inc. fundraiser by scanning QR codes provided at the event.

The takeaway

The event serves as an example of how trade conventions can elevate professional standards while supporting local community services. Attendees should look for the QR codes at the venue to participate in the charitable voting process.