Milwaukee Tattoo Arts Convention 2026
The Portrait Realism Academy runs October 6–8, 2026 in the Milwaukee area — the days right before the Milwaukee Tattoo Arts Convention (Villain Arts), October 9–11, 2026 at the Baird Center. Learn first, then work the floor.
The masterclass — Oct 6–8
3 days, 10 spots, black & grey portrait realism with Federico Galliani at SOL Studios, Hales Corners (SW Milwaukee metro). Details & apply →
The convention — Oct 9–11
The Milwaukee Tattoo Arts Convention is organized by Villain Arts at the Baird Center, downtown Milwaukee — around 400 artists, seminars and contests. It is an independent event; the Academy is not part of it and does not organize it. Official info: villainarts.com.
Why the timing works for traveling artists
One trip to Milwaukee covers both: three focused days of portrait-realism training, then a weekend on the convention floor. If you were already planning to attend the convention, the Academy is the reason to arrive a few days early. Coming in from out of state? See travel routes by city.
Last updated October 2026.