2026 ARTIST SEMINARS - IN-PERSON & LIVESTREAMED!

Whether you're a seasoned tattoo artist or just starting out, these seminars will elevate your craft to new heights. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from some of the best in the industry!

This year's seminar lineup is the strongest we've put together in eight years of this show. Each of these five artists approaches the craft from a different angle and I am excited for them to share not only how they work, but how they think. - Rich Handford

2026 Seminar Finals (1350 x 1080 px)-webheaders

9:30 am Light food and refreshments

10-11:20 Markus Lenhard  @luxaltera

11:30–12:50 Jake Danielson @jaketattoos

12:50-1:20 Catered light lunch

1:30-2:50 James Acrow @jamesacrow

3:00–4:20 Peter Lagergren @peterlagergren

4:30-6:00 Steve Moore @getmooretattoos

Date: Thursday, August 6, 2026 — The day before the main convention floor opens

In Person Location: Sandman Hotel & Suites, Winnipeg, MB

Online Location: Zoom - Central Daylight Time - Winnipeg (GMT-5)

In Person Pricing: Full Day: $600 CDN | Individual Seminar: $200 CDN

Online Pricing: All Seminars: $315 CDN | One Seminar $105 CDN

Moderator: Kaija Heitland — @kaija.heitland.tattoos

What to Bring: iPad, sketchbook, and drawing materials

Provided on site: Complimentary snacks, beverages, and a catered light lunch

Thursday, August 6, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. - Markus Lenhard - Dynamic Light and Colour: Fundamentals for tattooers

Description:

The physics of light and color are complex and sometimes overwhelming with all of the considerations we already make in creating a good tattoo. The science of colour theory and lighting shouldn't be an afterthought.
It should be a foundation of how you design tattoos.
But how do you wrap your mind around the science? How does subsurface scattering work? What is a specular highlight? And why are these things essential to building tattoos that make physical sense?
In this introductory seminar, Markus will break down some of the physics of his formulas for light effects, shadows, colour relationships and light sources to create stunning visual effects and take your colour tattoos and lighting to the next level. Using photos of his own work and animations, he will teach you applicable, useful tricks to apply to projects of all sizes.

@luxaltera

About the Artist:

Markus Lenhard has been tattooing since 2003 and is internationally recognized for his distinctive "Bio-Flow" style. Originally from Berlin, Germany, he now works on Vancouver Island, BC, alongside fellow artist Kaija Heitland. Drawing inspiration from biomechanics, Art Nouveau, physics, and natural patterns, Markus creates large-scale compositions designed to move naturally with the body. A respected educator and mentor, he has taught seminars worldwide since 2013 and continues to share his approach to design, colour, and movement with tattooers around the globe.

MARKUS-HEADSHOT

Thursday, August 6, 2026 - 11:30 a.m. - Jake Danielson - Working with the Body 

Description:

Through the lens of large scale work, an education in composition, flow, skin trauma and pain management. 

My thoughts and insight on working with the body and its unique shapes on large pieces from start to finish including scaling designs and mocking up concepts, design process and composition with a highlight on body flow. 

Also covering my thoughts on how to make your client as comfortable as possible, including managing pain and skin trauma during the process.

@jaketattoos

About the Artist:

Jake Danielson began tattooing in 2012 at just 16 years old. Based in Melbourne, Australia, he has built an international reputation for large-scale neo-traditional, Japanese-inspired, and illustrative work. Known for bold imagery and strong body flow, Jake specializes in designing tattoos that complement the natural structure of the body. His passion for large-scale projects and technical execution has earned him a global following and made him a sought-after educator on composition and body-focused design.

jakedanielson2026-photoofhim

Thursday, August 6, 2026 - 1:30 p.m. - James Acrow - Title: Creative drawing process 

Description:

Develop a confident drawing mindset, learn to work effectively using references and inspiration, and discover practical techniques to find and refine your own unique artistic style.

@jamesacrow

About the artist:

James Acrow is a Vancouver-based tattoo artist whose creative roots trace back to skateboarding, graffiti, and mural painting. Refusing to be confined to a single style, his work blends traditional American, Japanese, illustrative, and black-and-grey influences into a distinctly personal approach. Drawing remains at the heart of his process, and he is known for creating highly customized tattoos that reflect both strong artistic fundamentals and individual expression.

JamesAcrow

Thursday, August 6, 2026 - 3:00 p.m.. - Peter Lagergren - Three Decades of Tattooing: Craft, Composition & Evolution

Description:

A comprehensive look at composition, placement, flow, color, and longevity and discussion on how different styles and experiences have shaped my approach to tattooing. This seminar focuses on creating dynamic, lasting tattoos that work with the body and serve the client first.

@peterlagergren

About the artist:

Peter Lagergren is one of Sweden's most recognized tattoo artists and owner of Malmö Classic Tattoo. Since beginning his apprenticeship in 1999, he has developed a signature style that combines traditional Western and Japanese tattooing with bold colour and illustrative energy. Known for large-scale work and strong fundamentals, Peter has built an international following through decades of tattooing, convention appearances, and dedication to classic tattoo traditions.

peterlagergren-photo

Thursday, August 6, 2026 - 4:30 p.m. - Steve Moore - Perspective & Process

Description:

I will talk about and demonstrate my process through discussion and showing examples. This seminar will share how I move through the complete experience and process - from an initial description through to a completed piece.

@getmooretattoos

About the Artist:

Steve Moore has been tattooing since 1993 and is widely regarded as one of Canada's most influential colour tattoo artists. After apprenticing in Toronto and later working alongside mentor Aaron Cain, Steve developed a distinctive large-scale style known for its bold colour, dynamic compositions, and imaginative imagery. Now based on Vancouver Island, BC, he focuses on custom appointment-only work and continues to inspire artists worldwide through more than three decades of tattooing experience.

stevemoore-photo