Tatwaz Moris: When the Island Vibrates the Needle

Forty tattoo artists from various backgrounds gathered in Ébène for the first international tattoo convention held in Mauritius. Over two days, the art was showcased in all its needlework forms.

The continuous buzzing is hypnotic. In the hall of the Hennessy Park Hotel in Ébène, forty tattoo machines hum in unison. The air is filled with the scent of ink and antiseptic. Tattoo artists from Mauritius, Réunion, Switzerland, France, and Rodrigues are meticulously inking their clients. Welcome to the Tatwaz Moris Festival, the very first international tattoo convention ever held in Mauritius.

"This is the first convention Mauritius has ever hosted," says Krish Goorye, founder of the Mauritian Tattoos Association, as he navigates between the booths. He beams with pride. "We have 40 tattoo artists, both local and international. For us, this is a wonderful initiative because we have gathered a large number of artists from diverse backgrounds."

The spectacle around him is striking. Polynesian designs are displayed alongside realistic black and grey pieces, traditional Japanese compositions coexist with vibrant neo-traditional works. Each booth is a unique world.

For Krish Goorye, this convention fills a glaring gap: "In Mauritius, we have no platform to showcase our tattoo artists. Today, we have done just that."

A few meters away, Lindsay Prosper watches with satisfaction. With forty-seven years of experience, the most senior Mauritian tattoo artist has witnessed changing trends and prejudices. "It was about time; this is a first. Now, people will begin to understand what it is because, sometimes, when we mention tattoos, only a limited number of people know what it entails. Today, we are showcasing our work; people are passing by, looking and observing."

Indeed, they are looking. From the opening on Thursday morning, curious visitors flocked in. Some come to admire, while others take the plunge, extending their arms, backs, or calves. The needles begin their dance.

Micky from Micky’Ink traveled from Réunion. "I saw the announcement three months ago, and I wanted to diversify and see something new. There’s a great vibe here," he smiles while preparing his inks. For this artist, the journey was worthwhile; the excitement in the air and the exchanges between tattoo artists electrify the atmosphere.

Nearby, Séverine from Inked by Her adjusts the stencil on her client’s arm. This former civil servant left it all behind to pursue her passion. "There aren’t many female tattoo artists. At first, there were comments like it’s 'a man’s job,' but when someone shows their talent and potential, it turns into compliments," she shares. Her eyes light up: "This is a passion for me; I left my civil service job to do this. Every day when I wake up, I’m happy to go to work."

Beside her, Sarah from Lakaz Tatwaz reveals a creative secret: "I draw, and my husband tattoos. The convention is going super well." A creative duo that works wonderfully.

To judge such talent, a stellar jury was needed. Spok Tattoo, a veteran with nine years of experience specializing in pop culture and Japanese styles, expresses his enthusiasm: "An incredible experience: perfect organization, talented participants, top-notch jury, and an amazing atmosphere. I can't wait to come back for the next edition." Lemoine, ten years in old-school American tattooing, agrees: "It was a real pleasure to share this moment with everyone."

But perhaps Stoo, a legendary figure with over thirty years of experience and multiple wins at the World Tattoo Championship, currently based in Réunion, sums it up best: "This is the beginning of a beautiful adventure that’s just starting."

On Thursday, the "Best of Day" contests awarded the best tattoos in several categories. On Friday, the competition tightened for the remaining categories before the much-anticipated moment: the announcement of the "Best of Show," the supreme title for the best tattoo of the convention.

When his name echoes in the speakers, Miguel Leveque can hardly believe his ears. At 30, this tattoo artist from BlackRose in Sainte-Croix has just clinched the coveted Best of Show award, competing against seasoned artists from various places. "I really didn’t imagine this would happen... I presented a piece that represented a true dream for me, and I had the immense honor of winning first place in the Best of Show," he confesses, still in shock. Then, with a breath, like a promise: "This is just the beginning of my story."

Around him, applause erupts. Fellow artists come to congratulate him, patting him on the back. For the Mauritian tattoo community, long overshadowed by larger regional conventions, this local triumph resonates as a crowning achievement.

On Friday evening, as the last machines are turned off and artists pack their inks, Krish Goorye and his team are already looking toward the future. The next edition is on everyone's minds.

Tatwaz Moris 2025 will be remembered as the official date of Mauritius’s entry onto the international tattoo scene. In just two days, forty artists showcased that the island has abundant talent. And the Mauritian needle is sure to make waves again in the future.