After a busy first stop at Geek Life Le Mans, Dai Yokai travelled to Lille Tattoo Convention from 23 to January 25, 2026 for the second year in a row.
Why did this event make sense at Lille Grand Palais?
The connection between my masks and tattooing is deliberate. Whether the piece is a Hannya or an Oni, its visual language is closely linked to irezumi, traditional Japanese tattooing.
- References for a project: visitors could study pieces such as Kezurata to understand real volume and expression.
- Workshop progress: I returned with more developed paint techniques for worn surfaces and forged-metal effects.
- Figures and studio decor: Komainu and Kitsune figures complemented the masks for a tattoo shop or creative space.
- Live explanations: at the stand I could show how a raw base becomes a painted and finished piece.
- Dates: 23, 24 and January 25, 2026.
- Venue: Lille Grand Palais.
- Stand location: announced on Instagram before the event.
Why Dai Yokai belongs at a tattoo convention
A tattoo convention is more than a place to sell. It is where Japanese motifs are examined closely: Oni, Hannya, Kitsune, dragons, waves, flames and faces that can feel fierce or melancholic. Dai Yokai masks fit this setting because they work with the visual language of irezumi and Japanese folklore without becoming generic decoration.
The stand presented pieces that could be inspected from every angle. Paint, crackle effects, relief, horns and teeth had to remain readable under convention lighting. A strong mask must work from a distance and still reward a close look.
What visitors could compare
Each mask family carries a different mood. Oni can suggest force, protection and a guardian-demon presence. Hannya focuses on jealousy, pain and transformation. Kitsune can feel cunning, sacred or elegant depending on the colour. Mempo remains closer to armour and the warrior face.
For tattoo artists, these differences can support a composition, a display or a client reference. For other visitors, they help identify a piece that makes sense for wearing, wall display, a studio or a visual project.
Preparing an order or a special request
If you want to discuss a colour, finish, format or piece seen on the website, bring a screenshot or the mask name. I can explain what is ready, what needs to be made and what remains realistic within my workshop process. Clear limits are better than promising a finish that will not hold up.
Pieces shown at an event can come from several families. The handmade Japanese mask collection lets you compare Oni, Hannya, Kitsune, Tengu and Mempo after the convention.
Lille Tattoo Convention and Dai Yokai FAQ
Did admission to Lille Tattoo Convention include access to the Dai Yokai stand?
Yes. Once inside the convention, visitors could access the exhibitor stands throughout the weekend.
Can a mask be reserved before a convention?
Yes. Contact Dai Yokai through Instagram or the website with the mask name or a screenshot so availability and finish can be confirmed.
Does Dai Yokai sell directly from the stand?
Yes, depending on the stock prepared for the event. If a piece is no longer available, a similar finish can often be discussed online.
Are the masks suitable for a tattoo studio?
Yes. They are lightweight, durable display pieces whose hand-painted finishes retain a strong visual presence on studio walls and in creative spaces.
After the event, masks seen at the stand can be found in the Dai Yokai shop or used as the starting point for a future order.