Fast forward a few millennia and today the practise is recognised as a legitimate art form and personal expression of individuality.

On August 1, Llandudno's Venue Cymru will be completely taken over to celebrate this international phenomenon when Skin Deep Magazine present Tattoo Jam 2008 - the largest tattoo convention ever to come to the North Wales coast.

The Pioneer caught up with the editor of Skin Deep Magazine, Neil Dalleywater, to talk about what people can expect from this massive event.

"It's not just for people with tattoos," said Neil. "It's for anyone with an interest in body modification. If you are thinking about getting a tattoo you should certainly come along to the show and see the world's best at work. (The artists] are happy to talk to people, very friendly and are the nicest people in the world."

With 125 professional artists from all corners of the globe descending on the town from as far as Australia, Japan, the USA and Borneo (displaying traditional hand-tapping techniques), the convention promises to be a rare chance to see a variety of exciting examples of body art in the flesh.

"These guys are at the top of their field and all of them are going to be working on a first come, first served basis. This is quite an opportunity as a lot of them have a year long waiting list."

If the thought of having a tattoo doesn't excite you, then the host of alternative attractions on hand at Tattoo Jam 2008 may appeal.

"There will be burlesque shows, fashion shows, freak shows, vendor booths with tattoo orientated paraphernalia, jewellery, and skater clothes. The Guiness Book of Records' woman with the most tattoos will be there along with the most pierced man. We have charity events in aid of the Teenage Charity Trust, art exhibitions - there's just so much going on."

Offering a suitable soundtrack to the event will be Kerrang! Radio who will be bringing a selection of rock and metal bands to North Wales, including Brit-rockers The Wildhearts who will be headlining.

This will be the first convention organised by the successful magazine, and although Llandudno may seem like an unlikely location to hold such an event, Neil is confident it will be a great success.

"North Wales is not catered for but has great transportation links," said Neil. "We're theming it a bit like a Punch and Judy - a bit 'by the seaside' and 'Victorian'.
"We've been going as a magazine for 14 years. I've been in a privileged position where I've been to shows all year all over the world and got to experience the good and the bad things. We're bringing all the good aspects and hopefully non of the things that didn't work.
"People can be intimidated by tattoos and piercings; there are a lot of stigmas attached to it. This is a way of showing we're not all thugs and sailors, and promoting it as a wonderful art form - because that is what it is."

For more information on Tattoo Jam 2008 including samples of artwork by the artists, or to book tickets, visit their website at www.tattoojam.co.uk