Today we’d like to introduce you to Dalton Cooper (ink’d Fest)
Hi Dalton, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey into the world of tattooing started in a somewhat unconventional way. Unlike many artists who learn the craft through formal apprenticeships or by working in tattoo shops, I taught myself in my apartment just over a year ago. Growing up, my father was an artist who could paint and draw anything, and I was always inspired by his creativity. I shared some of my drawings with friends, and they encouraged me to buy a tattoo machine for fun. I’ve always had a passion for art, and tattoos felt like a natural way to channel that creative energy. I spent countless hours researching techniques, experimenting on practice skins, and learning from online resources. It was a slow process at first, but over time, I developed my own unique style and approach to tattooing. I began tattooing myself, as well as close friends.
While tattoo expos already exist in the community, I saw an opportunity to create something a little different. I wanted to bring together not just artists and enthusiasts, but also a broader audience, to celebrate the artistry and culture behind tattoos in a more intimate and accessible way. The idea for hosting my own tattoo festival came from this vision—creating an event that would foster meaningful connections between artists, collectors, and the local community, while showcasing the incredible talent in the tattoo world.
I’ve always believed in the power of self-expression, and tattoos are a beautiful form of that. This festival is my way of sharing that belief and giving artists a platform to showcase their work outside of the traditional shop environment. It’s been a rewarding experience to see this event come together, and I’m excited to continue growing it and bringing new energy to the tattoo scene.
The 2025 Ink’d Fest™ tour will showcase a diverse range of talent and artistry, bringing together tattoo enthusiasts, artists, and industry professionals from around the globe. These expos will be vibrant events featuring live tattooing sessions where attendees can be tattooed by some of the best in the business. Locations for the expos will vary, offering unique experiences in different cities. Expect a mix of traditional tattoo styles and contemporary innovations, with many artists showcasing their work in various mediums beyond skin art, including illustrative pieces and digital displays.
Attendees will have the chance to engage with artists, book consultations, and gain insights into techniques and trends. In addition to the art itself, there will be opportunities to explore merchandise, including tattoo supplies, aftercare products, and memorabilia. Performances, live music, and vendors will enhance the atmosphere, making the expos a celebration of creativity and community.
Whether you are a seasoned tattoo artist, a collector, or simply curious about tattoo culture, the 2025 Ink’d Fest™ tour promises to be an exciting celebration of self-expression and artistry.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Starting something as ambitious as a tattoo festival has definitely come with its challenges, and it hasn’t always been a smooth road. Being in the early stages, I’ve had to wear many hats—planning the event, building connections with artists, securing the venues, developing a website from scratch, and figuring out all the logistics that come with organizing something of this scale. It’s definitely been a learning experience every step of the way. I couldn’t have done any of this, without the help of my family.
One of the biggest struggles has been balancing my time on top of a full-time job. With a project like this, there’s always a lot to juggle, from handling the creative side of the festival to managing the business aspects. There have been moments of uncertainty—like navigating how to best position the event in a space that already has established tattoo expos—and figuring out how to stand out while keeping the spirit of the tattoo community intact.
Additionally, gaining the trust of artists and vendors is an ongoing process. The tattoo world is full of amazing talent, and gaining their confidence takes time. Each challenge has been a chance to grow and refine the vision of Ink’d Fest™.
Despite these hurdles, the passion and excitement I feel for this vision keeps me going. I’m surrounded by a supportive community of tattoo artists, family, friends, and people who share my vision, and that makes all the hard work worthwhile. Every challenge has only pushed me to think more creatively and come up with solutions that will make the festival even better!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Ink’d Fest™ will be hosting two-day tattoo festivals across the nation. This exciting tattoo festival will celebrate the vibrant world of tattoo art, with the first festival happening on August 2nd and August 3rd, 2025, in Waco, Texas.
This weekend will be filled with creativity and camaraderie among fellow tattoo enthusiasts! With a spacious facility and a lively atmosphere, it’s the ideal location to host our gathering of tattoo lovers.
At Ink’d Fest™, you’ll have the chance to meet and get tattooed by talented artists from across the nation.
We invite you to come be part of this celebration of ink and artistry.
Tattoo artists can secure their booth spot on our website at https://www.inkdfest.com/apply-for-booth
The general public can find pre-sale tickets on our website at https://www.inkdfest.com/tickets
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me is fostering a sense of community and connection. The tattoo world is so much more than just ink on skin—it’s about self-expression, creativity, and building relationships between artists and people from all walks of life. I believe in creating spaces where people can come together to share their passion, support one another, and celebrate the unique art that tattoos represent.
With this festival, I want to cultivate an environment that welcomes everyone—whether they’re longtime tattoo collectors, artists just starting their journey, or people who are simply curious about the culture. For me, it’s about more than just showcasing tattoos; it’s about providing a platform for artists to express themselves freely, and for attendees to feel inspired and connected to something larger than just the art itself.
Ultimately, what matters most to me is giving back to the tattoo community, supporting the artists, and creating a space where creativity and self-expression can thrive. That’s what drives me every day as I continue building this festival.
Pricing:
- • Single Artist booth (10′ x 10′) – $500
- • Double artist booth (10′ x 20′) – $1,000
- • Triple artist booth (10′ x 30′) – $1,500
- • Vendor booth (10′ x 10′ NON-TATTOO) – $500
- • Contest Awards Sponsor – $1,500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.inkdfest.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkdfest/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/INKDFESTUSA/
