Tattooing at Parties and Festivals: 'Norwegians Can Be Spontaneous Too'

Amidst the buzz of music and conversation, tattoo artist Briand Chevalier sets up shop in a corner of Las Palmas Inn in Oslo, offering spontaneous tattoos. Chevalier, who traveled from Bordeaux, France, is participating in an event organized by Kreativt Kollektiv.

This is not Chevalier's first pop-up in the Norwegian capital. He notes that while some previously considered it "not trendy" in Norway, his spontaneous approach has proven successful. "It turns out that Norwegians can also be spontaneous," Chevalier remarked, referring to the flash tattoos – pre-designed motifs customers can choose from.

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It turns out that Norwegians can also be spontaneous.

Chevalier acknowledges the technical challenges of tattooing outside a traditional studio, citing potential issues with comfort, space, and lighting. However, he stresses the importance of precision, stating, "If I mess it up, it's fucked for life." He views the tattooing experience as a shared responsibility and a unique, intimate creation between artist and client.

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If I mess it up, it's fucked for life.

"It's a fantastic experience to see how people react to my art," Chevalier said. "It's an honor that people want my art on their skin." He primarily tattoos arms at these events, describing the close proximity to clients as "intimate."

Despite Chevalier's professional approach, Norway's Tattoo Federation expresses concerns. Chairman Vegard Langfeldt Hallberg advises against tattooing for those who have consumed alcohol and highlights the federation's criticism of tattooing in venues that do not meet hygiene standards. The federation is in dialogue with the Directorate of Health regarding regulations for tattooing at events.

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It's a fantastic experience to see how people react to my art. It's an honor that people want my art on their skin.