Pasadena, CA — September 2025 — The Golden State Tattoo Expo returned to the Pasadena Convention Center this September, bringing together some of the finest tattoo artists from around the world for three days of artistry, competition, and community. Known as one of the premier tattoo gatherings in the industry, the Expo once again drew thousands of enthusiasts who came to witness live tattooing, attend seminars, shop vendor booths, and celebrate the evolving culture of tattoo art.

This year, Vism Studio made a strong impression with a lineup of six artists: Abii, Sol, Ria, Yoshi, Pauline, and Eden. Their booth quickly became a hub of activity, with visitors drawn in by the variety of styles and the sheer talent on display. Event goers lingered to watch tattoos take shape, to admire portfolios, and to chat with the artists about their process and inspirations.

The weekend proved especially rewarding for Abii and Ria, who both earned first-place honors in the tattoo competition. Abii, celebrated for her luminous use of color and her ability to bring nature to life, won Best Small Colored Tattoo. Her design, alive with painterly vibrance and intricate detail, showcased the depth of her artistry. Attendees praised her ability to transform even a small tattoo into something striking and memorable, reaffirming her reputation as one of the studio’s standout talents.

Ria comes second to none when it comes to tattoos of our furry friends. She knows how to capture the life of our best four-legged companions, and she clearly showcased it at this event by winning the Best Small Black and Gray Tattoo category. Her design — a dog’s face framed within a dog’s paw — was brimming with life, emotion, and precision. The piece drew admiration not only for its technical execution but also for the warmth and sentiment it carried, making it one of the most talked-about works of the competition.

Throughout the weekend, Vism Studio’s booth stood as a microcosm of contemporary tattoo artistry. Visitors often remarked on the diversity within the group, and how each artist’s individuality contributed to a larger, unified presence.

When the Expo closed on Sunday evening, Vism Studio left not just with trophies but with a renewed sense of connection and inspiration. The victories of Abii and Ria were important milestones, yet the true highlight was the collective impact the studio made at one of tattooing’s most celebrated events.

The 2025 Golden State Tattoo Expo was a showcase of skill, creativity, and community, and Vism Studio once again demonstrated why it has earned its reputation as one of the most compelling studios in the industry today.