contest schedule and rules

  • The competition runs for three consecutive days:

    • Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

    • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

    • Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

    The competition will be held at:
    Imperio Venues

    7610 W Indian School Rd
    Phoenix, AZ 85033

  • Artist setup and check-in begins Friday at 7:00 AM.
    Artists may enter early for setup only — no tattooing before competition start time.

  • Eligibility

    • Artists must be registered and approved to participate in the competition.

    • All artists must be 18 years or older.

    Equipment & Supplies

    • Artists must bring their own tattoo machines, needles, inks, and personal supplies.

    • All equipment must meet health and safety standards.

    Health & Safety Compliance

    • Artists must follow all local health regulations and sanitation guidelines.

    • Proper PPE and sterile procedures are required at all times.

    • All artists are required to bring with them a copy of an up to date Blood Born Pathogens Certificate.

    Work Standards

    • All tattoos must be completed during official competition hours.

    • No pre-stenciling or tattooing prior to the start of competition.

    • Artwork must be completed within the allotted daily time frame.

    Booth Responsibility

    • Artists are responsible for keeping their booth clean and professional at all times.

    • Any damage to the venue or equipment is the responsibility of the artist.

    Conduct & Professionalism

    • Respectful conduct toward clients, staff, and other artists is required.

    • The event organizers reserve the right to remove any participant for unsafe or inappropriate behavior.

  • Application Submission

    • All artists must complete the official sign-up form to be considered.

    • You will need to submit

      • One (1) photo of you

      • Three (3) photos of your best tattoo work

    Entry Fee

    • The participation fee is $850 per artist.

    • Payment is required only after approval.

    Approval Process

    • Applications will be reviewed by the event team.

    • Approved artists will be notified via email.

    Promotion & Collaboration

    • Approved artists must collaborate on a promotional flyer.

    • The flyer must be shared on the artist’s Instagram as part of event promotion.

  • Grand Prize Winner

    • The overall winner will receive a $4,000 cash prize.

    • The winner will also receive the official Tattoo Warriors Trophy.

    Judging & Selection

    • Winners are selected based on creativity, technical skill, execution, and overall presentation.

    • Judges’ decisions are final.

    Award Presentation

    • Awards will be presented during the official announcement on Sunday at 10:00 PM

  • Tattoo Supply Vendor

    • Dynamic Color will be on-site providing professional tattoo supplies throughout the event.

    Food & Local Vendors

    • A variety of food trucks will be available throughout the weekend.

    • Additional local small business vendors will be present, offering merchandise and services.

    Live Entertainment

    • The event will feature Aztec cultural performances, adding energy, tradition, and atmosphere throughout the weekend.