Blog

Sep 08, 2023

‘Locked Up’ Tattoo Convention Set at Former West Virginia Penitentiary in Moundsville

Jun 6, 2023 Shown here is a tattoo done by tattoo artist Joe Capone, who was

Jun 6, 2023

Shown here is a tattoo done by tattoo artist Joe Capone, who was featured on the TV show "Ink Master." (Photo Provided)

The inaugural Locked Up Tattoo Convention and Dark Carnival is slated for June 16-18 at the old West Virginia Penitentiary in Moundsville.

Convention organizer Shawn Alexander of South Point, Ohio, said he has held oddities and exotic animal expos at the site in the past, but he wanted to also host a tattoo convention now that COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have been lifted.

There will be more than 100 tattoo artists participating and doing tattoos via appointment during the indoor/outdoor event. There will be numerous oddity vendors, tattoo contests, and dark carnival performers such as sword swallowers and fire swallowers.

The three-day event's hours are noon to 10 p.m. Friday-Saturday and noon to 7 p.m. Sunday.

The cost to enter the event is $50 for all three days or $20 per day via online at wonders-oddities-expos.ticketleap.com. Tickets are also available at the gate for $25. Children 12 years old and younger can enter free.

Alexander said tattoo artists from across the country will be participating including those who are sponsored by tattoo care companies such as Urban's Edge and Gratitude. Joe Capone from the TV show Ink Master will also be in attendance, he said.

"We do a lot of events there; we just like the Ohio Valley," Alexander said. "This is really one of the only places that you can see that many talented artists all in one place, and with all the oddities it should be a really fun weekend."

The featured tattoo artists’ work can be found on the event's Facebook page, "Locked Up Tattoo Convention WV."

Amanda Wolverton, general manager of the West Virginia Penitentiary, said in addition to the tattoo convention the penitentiary is hosting other events this summer along with its usual tours.

For example, in July, the Marshall County School District will be hosting its Back to School Fair on July 26. On Aug. 5, the Marshall County Panthers will hold its Gun Bash on Aug. 5.

On Sept. 9 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the penn, along with partner Paranormal Quest, will be hosting its annual Para-Con, which is a paranormal convention featuring vendors, speakers and an overnight paranormal investigation event for those 18 years old and older.

Wolverton said the Para-Con will also feature vendors selling oddities, resin art, jewelry and more.

The cost to enter is $20 per person in advance at www.wvpentours.com or for $25 at the door via credit or debit card only.

Those who would like to apply to be a vendor at the Para-Con event can email [email protected].

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

Volunteers and local organizations are teaming up with Orrick, Herrington and Sutcliffe for "Pride in Wheeling ...