VOID Tattoo Fest 2026: A New Era of Body Art in Portland
By Darren Smith, Arts Reporter
May 23, 2026
In the heart of Portland’s Central Eastside, the VOID Tattoo Fest 2026 is redefining the traditional tattoo convention experience this Memorial Day weekend. From May 22 to 24, the historic Jupiter Hotel complex at 800-900 East Burnside Street has become a living canvas of creativity, where tattoo artists, enthusiasts, and visitors converge for an immersive celebration of body art and culture.
Founded by longtime Portland tattooers Brian Wilson of Wilson Brothers Tattoo (formerly Scapegoat Tattoo) and Olivia Britz-Wheat of Mortal Emblem, VOID stands out as an artist-run event that blends convention energy with intimate, unconventional elements. Unlike standard expos, the festival turns individual motel-style rooms in the Jupiter Original into mini tattoo studios, while the ballroom and Jupiter NEXT host main-stage tattooing, vendors, and educational programming.
Attendees can watch world-class talent at work up close, with a carefully curated lineup of artists from across the country and local Portland favorites. The event emphasizes quality over quantity, creating an atmosphere that feels more like an artistic collective than a crowded trade show. Seminars cover essential topics for professionals, including machine building, lettering foundations, taxes for tattooers, and artist talks, offering valuable continuing education in a relaxed setting.
A highlight of the weekend is the commitment to community impact. Tattoo contests, with a modest $10 entry fee, direct all proceeds to rotating Portland nonprofits each night, including Taking Ownership PDX, P:ear, and The Q Center. These efforts support housing revitalization, youth creative programs, and LGBTQ+ community resources, adding meaningful purpose to the celebration.
The festival also features vibrant side programming: local food and drink vendors (including Hey Love as the anchor bar), art shows, immersive installations, DJs, drag performances, and a free-to-the-public Saturday Street Fair on E 9th Avenue.
Portland’s tattoo scene has long been known for its innovation and inclusivity, and VOID Tattoo Fest 2026 amplifies that reputation on a national stage. By prioritizing licensed artists, ethical practices, and genuine connection, the event fosters an environment where craft meets culture. Organizers have emphasized values alignment with participating artists and vendors, resulting in a thoughtfully assembled experience that feels fresh and authentic.
For those seeking their next piece of ink, the festival offers both pre-booked sessions and walk-up opportunities. Whether you’re a collector, an aspiring artist, or simply someone drawn to bold self-expression, VOID delivers an unforgettable weekend.
Tickets remain available for single days or the full weekend via the official site. Don’t miss this opportunity to dive into one of the most exciting tattoo events of the year—secure your spot today at voidtattoofest.com and experience the void for yourself.
Join the movement! Grab tickets now, follow @voidtattoofest for live updates, and become part of Portland’s vibrant tattoo community. Your next story could start with a single mark at VOID 2026.
Cover image has been Ai generated.
