Skin, ink and action for arts expo

Blood artists, Crusty Demons and body painters will join some of the world's best tattoo artists at this weekend's Tattoo and Arts Expo in Hamilton.

The third expo features an impressive line-up of artists, musicians and stunt riders at the Claudelands Event Centre.

Top of the must-see list for many will be Dr. Rev.

A huge hit at the last expo, he is known for creating incredibly intricate artworks painted in his blood.

Dr. Rev will be joined by former Crusty Demons and Nitro Circus rider Luke Smith, who made headlines by recovering from a brain injury that left him in a coma three years ago.

To top off the two-wheeled action, New Zealand's Jed Milton, the first man in the world to pull a triple back flip on his BMX, will perform live demos.

A reality TV presenter and tattooist, Amy Nicoletto, will attend with a film crew, as will Kiwi world champion body painter Yolanda Bertram.

As well as tattoo artists from the US, Norway, England, Japan, Finland, Spain, Canada, Borneo, Switzerland, China, South Africa and Australia, the best Kiwi tattoo talent will also be present.

Other attractions include, a 12-man mixed martial arts competition, Miss Tattoo New Zealand, a roller derby match, a classic car contest, a skate competition and a trans-Tasman graffiti test.

"It's not often you can get up close with the best local and international talent under one roof," says organiser Chris Preece.

For people not keen on permanent ink, he says the expo is a chance to glimpse all that is happening in street culture.

"It's not just about the incredible tattoo art. We also have amazing street and surfboard artists, as well as some of the world's hottest freestyle motocross and BMX stars and great live music all weekend."

Funds raised via art auctions and collection boxes at the expo go to the SPCA.