Tattoo artists compete for top awards at international festival

SOCHI: For more than 60 artists from Russia, Belarus and London it was an opportunity to showcase their skills but for ink enthusiasts the Sochi International Tattoo Festival was all about displaying their body art.

Artists drew their creations on thighs, backs, arms and other body parts, hoping to impress judges to win awards in 16 categories ranging from color and cover-up tattoos to the most hyper realistic tattoo and best body art displays.

"I have had tattoos done in many places," Aka Myshka said during the three-day event. "I have had them (done) by 20 artists, so one could say I'm a collector."