Sounds of buzzing ink needles, and several tattoo-obsessed attendees sitting for a new tattoo, filled the Quality Inn and Suites Hotel in Lake Havasu City as local attendees and some from out-of-state, gathered to take part in day two of the 8th Annual Lake Havasu Tattoo Show Saturday.

“I’ve been coming here every year,” said artist Russ Weber, who traveled from Tucson. “I like seeing my clients that I have built up here, and all my friends taking part in this.”

The event has been taking place since 2006 after organizer Tyler Byrne found similar events like this in Los Angeles and decided to bring it to Lake Havasu.

“My idea is always to bring something new to this town,” said Byrne. “After visiting conventions with one of my buddies, someone approached me to host an event here so I did.”

Crystal Dean gets a tattoo of Edward Scissorhands by artist Clayton Howell of Lake Vegas,Nv. Saturday afternoon. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Tables of artwork and samples of tattoo sketches are on display around vendor booths for visitors to see. And if ink is a bit too permanent for some, a piercing table for those interested is available. Artists have the opportunity to mingle and see each others’ work.

“It’s a cool way to meet new people,” said professional piercer Holly Horror from Forgotten Art in Lancaster, Calif. “It is also a good networking opportunity.”

Roses and many designs are just some of the options those hoping to get a tattoo can choose from. Local resident Kara Martinez, who loves the art of tattooing, came to add another to her collection.

“This is my third year coming to this event,” said Martinez. “It is just great to see the artists and their talent and just get to meet a lot of people.”

According to Byrne, many who don’t have tattoos or are shy to the idea, may not know too much about the industry but says the event is an opportunity to see what the artists do.

“I think many people have misconceptions of tattoos and for those who love getting them, said Byrne. “It’s just a nice group of people who love art.”

The event resumes Sunday from noon to 8 p.m., at the Quality Inn and Suites Hotel 271 Lake Havasu Avenue South.