Cornwall Tattoo Artist Jess Black-Crites’ Exhibition and Merchandise Launch

Article and Photo by Jason Setnyk

Cornwall, Ontario – Jess Black-Crites, a tattoo artist and designer from Cornwall, has launched her “Tattoo Flash – Berlin Baby Series #1” poster and merchandise at an exhibition hosted by the Cornwall Stamp Company.

“The inspiration for the art show was Stacey’s work; the screen printing and showing off the art I do can be in print as well. We just collaborated using what Stacey does and what I do. We smashed them together, and this is what we got out of it,” Black-Crites explained.

“As a tattooed artist and printer, with an eye towards vintage styles as a designer, I’ve always wanted to print some as a big poster! I had seen a sheet of Jess’s early flash, and I knew I had to meet her. While she tattooed my knuckles, I told her my idea – and here we are. These new, original, two colour black and red pieces are so striking and bold – I bet she’ll be busy tattooing them on customers right away,” Cornwall Stamp Company owner Stacey Case added.

Black-Crites, who has been part of the tattoo industry since 2015, learned from her mentor, Simon Ackroyd, at Olde Tyme Tattoo and began tattooing in 2021. She describes her work as paying respect to tradition but with a twist.

“I always try to put a cute twist on everything like traditional stuff and to pay my respects to the old days with a twist on it, the way I would wear things,” Black-Crites replied.

The venue was quickly filling up within half an hour of the opening. A diverse audience of art enthusiasts, tattoo lovers, and supporters were in attendance.

“I’m super happy about the turnout, and I got to see some of my favourite people. I got to show them that some of their art that inspired me is on the walls, so I’m very happy with it,” Black-Crites concluded.

The event features a reception and sale on Friday, April 28, from 6-10 pm and viewing and sales on Saturday and Sunday from 11-5 pm. The exhibition includes merchandise featuring her original art, and cash, credit, and debit payments are accepted.

Be sure to visit Jess Black-Crites’ Exhibition this weekend at The Cornwall Stamp Company at 1116 Paul Street. The venue is an all-inclusive art space that includes exhibitions, lessons, workshops, and studio rentals.