KATHMANDU, Sept 4 : Amidst Kathmandu’s fluctuating weather, Naxal’s RS Moto, a motorcycle design shop, served as a bright and colorful oasis for tattoo enthusiasts. Accompanied by hornet buzz of tattoo machines, people stretched out their arms, legs and backs, ready to ink grotesque skulls and obscure phrases in Arabic characters.
This was the third edition of ‘Nepalinked Tattoo Convention’ that RS Moto hosts every year. The crowd was thin after the doors opened but by evening the place was dotted with groups of people inhabiting both the indoor hall and the outdoor ground.
Brighter and bolder
The indoor hall hosted competitions and exhibitions on tattoo art and piercing. The hall, to my disappointment, didn’t have a steady flow of people. Artists had free time on their hand and the clients who were present to get inked were mostly foreigners. However, all the stalls had put up elaborate posters showcasing the artists’ impressive tattoo art portfolios, each ousting the other.
The crowd was a mix of people who mostly flaunted their dreadlocks, amusing face piercings and intricate artworks that was taking refuge on their skin. Altogether, one could witness the artists’ unidirectional concentration and the cringing faces of their customers painstakingly getting inked.
The outdoor ground was an equally happening place. As promised, the entertainment stalls included product sales and food and drinks that catered to a large number of people. People were jamming to the melodious tunes of sitar that was strung in harmony with drums and guitar. Yes, the live music had everyone entertained with a distinct fusion of different instruments.
A small area was allocated for skateboard stunts where young Nepali boys in an all-black ensemble boasted their skills. There were also a few stalls which sold custom made t-shirts and other stalls sold authentic Nepal made wears. The outdoor ground gave off fete vibes with lively music and chirping people.
The three day convention witnessed entertainment events and exhibitions comprising tattoo lovers, ink suppliers and 88 tattoo artists. The major ‘7th International Nepal Tattoo Convention’ is to take place in April of next year but this mini convention was hosted on public demand that shows the changing perception of Nepalis towards an alternative lifestyle.
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