the first european tattoo artist, known as 'lucky tattoo', came to brazil from denmark in 1959 - since then, the art form has flourished and developed across the country, adding to the rich, existing culture of body marking of the indigenous peoples of south america.

tattoo week, which takes place at the centro de convenções sulamérica in the center of the city  showcasing body art every january, has gained popularity with each passing edition among enthusiasts, curious people, and photographers alike - created in 2011 by enio conte and his wife esther gawendo, with the objective of raising the artistic status of tattoos in brazil and providing artists with a platform to showcase their talents. 

the convention is now recognized as one of the biggest and most prestigious in the world - presenting over 800 tattoo artists from 25 countries, 180 stands are erected for professional tattoo artists, body piercers, and makeup artists, as well as those selling clothes, accessories, tattoo inks, and more.