Beyond the Castle Walls: Edinburgh's Tattoo Scene

If you look up tattoo culture and identity in Edinburgh, you will most likely looking at men in kilts playing the bagpipes outside the castle. If you are searching for a military tattoo, you are in the wrong place.

Edinburgh boasts a bustling community of tattoo artists, each with their unique style and approach. From traditional old-school tattoos to realism, the options are as diverse as the people who wear them. Visitors flock to the city specifically to get inked, drawn by the reputation of its talented artists and inclusive atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Edinburgh's tattoo calendar is the Scottish Tattoo Convention, a gathering that attracts ink lovers from far and wide. Here, local artists mingle with international talent, creating a melting pot of creativity and collaboration. It's a chance for artists to showcase their skills, connect with fans, and push the boundaries of what's possible in tattoo art.

In Edinburgh, there's a sense of freedom when it comes to tattoos. Artists are encouraged to break away from convention and explore new ideas, fuelled by a young and progressive population in the city. Social media has revolutionized the way people interact with tattoo art, allowing for niche communities to thrive and for artists to connect directly with their audience.

While there may still be some lingering stigma around tattoos, particularly among older generations, attitudes in Edinburgh are largely positive. Having a tattoo, or being an artist who creates them, is seen as cool and creative rather than taboo.

Scotland’s rich heritage plays a part in influencing tattoos in Edinburgh. Many residents in Edinburgh incorporate iconic symbols such as thistle, Celtic knots, and highland imagery into their tattoo designs, forging a connection to their cultural heritage and personal identity.