Ocean Center inking new event with tattoo gathering

The Ocean Center welcomes iconic tattoo artist Gill "The Drill" Montie and his Pirate Tattoo Association for their first annual assembly, "The Gathering," Aug. 2-4 at the Ocean Center. The new event will feature a collection of famous tattoo artists, merchandise vendors and legends of the tattoo industry. 

At this unconventional convention, attendees will meet hundreds of tattoo artists from all over the world, and can even plan to get some ink if they'd like. The event will kick off with a pirate-themed ball on Friday, complete with costume contest and charity auction. 

Gill "The Drill" Montie is a tattoo artist legend, tattooing everyday people, as well as royalty, CEOs and celebrities. His work can be seen in movies, including George Clooney's tattoos in the film "From Dusk Till Dawn." Montie has been a guest on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," "Roseanne," and the cult classic "Blood in, Blood Out." 

The Pirate Tattoo Association was founded in an effort to focus on advocating for the future of the tattoo industry while preserving its history. The Gathering will serve as the official launch for the association and is produced by Montie and his business partner, "Buca The Great." 

Show times are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Aug. 2 and 3, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Aug. 4. Tickets are $20 a day or $50 for a weekend pass. Visit https://www.ptagathering.com/ for more information and to purchase tickets.