Inkfest, an arts festival which highlights tattoo art will take place this year beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 10 and 11, at Tom’s Tavern, located at 1500 E. Third St. in Winslow. The event organized by Lauralee Parsons will be celebrating its fifth anniversary this year. Despite restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival will take place. Parsons said, “We know the risks involved in moving forward with this annual event. However, things will be much different this year as we try to keep everyone as safe as possible.” In years past, the festival has featured nearly 20 tattoo artists, tattooing live throughout the weekend with spectators and tattoo collectors mingling amongst them. According to Parsons, that will be on a more limited basis this year. “There will be fewer artists this year, and fewer vendors so that we can assure physical distancing. We are encouraging appointments to be made prior to the weekend, of course that won’t be required, but definitely recommended. The artists will be inside the main building of Tom’s Tavern unlike years past where they have been spread throughout the grounds. This will let us keep track of how many people are inside at once. The majority of the crowd will be outside on the very large patio.” Other precautions will be in place as well. “Everyone that comes in will come through one entrance. At that door, we will be taking temperatures and offering masks and hand sanitizer. We truly want everyone to have a good time, but we also want everyone to be safe.” Inkfest will feature 11 tattoo artists from around the state specializing in many forms of tattooing. “Body modification,” Parsons said, “has really come a long way in society. An event like this would not have been so well attended or so mainstream 10 years ago. Now, most people you see have at least one tattoo or some other form of modification. This festival is all about celebrating individuality and expression through art.” Another popular aspect of the festival is the pin up pageant. This year, 12 ladies will compete in a two round contest that includes music, dancing, an interview portion and more. The pageant will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11, during Inkfest. Inkfest has a presence on social media at www.facebook.com/inkfest2020 as well as on Instagram. Admission is free and the event is all ages both Saturday and Sunday until 7 p.m. For more information, contact Parsons through social media.
