Global tattoo artists due October
Kota Kinabalu: A Penampang boy who had set out to see the world and established himself as a professional tattoo artist is sharing the love with his home State in a big way.
Carlos Benny, 32, who has been inking bodies for over 18 years, is rallying tattoo artists from all around the world to join the first Sabah International Tattoo Convention set to take place in Hyatt Hotel this October.
“Around 50 tattoo artists from all over the world including Japan, France, Switzerland, Spain, Germany and Portugal will be taking part in the event,” said Benny, who is based in Kuala Lumpur now.
“I left Sabah when I was 21 to further my studies, before deciding to travel all over the world for experience and exposure,” he added.
Benny said Sabah was chosen as the venue because he wanted to expose Sabahans to something that could bring awareness and unity through art.
“It’s a different approach,” he said, adding that it would be a boost to tourism as well.
He cited renowned Parisian tattoo artist Filip Leu as among the figures that had inspired him throughout his art journey.
The social media campaign of the event which started early this year had garnered much attention with around 3,248 likes.
Singaporean artist Julian Chia said he had faith in the convention as the organisers had put in much effort in realising the event.
“I think the organisers have put a lot of work into it.
“I’ve been to big conventions that have ended up having a miserable turnout and small conventions that have been very well received. I have a good feeling about this convention.
“Plus, you have the most beautiful beaches and I can go diving after the convention,” said Chia who has a degree in Arts Management from Lasalle College of the Arts in Singapore.
He also advised those who were keen on inking their bodies to think hard and decide beforehand.
“Love lasts forever, but a tattoo lasts 10 years more. Pick your artist wisely,” he said.
Among other big names that would be part of the event includes Ernesto Kalum from Kuching who is hailed as the first Malaysian who had set up professional tattoo service in the region.
Kalum was also chosen as the tattoo and design adviser for The New Line Cinema film production “Sleeping Dictionary”, directed by Guy Jenkins and starring Jessica Alba and Hugh Dancy.
Source: Daily Express
