Whitley Bay Tattoo Artist Launches Festive Charity Ink Campaign

A tattoo artist in Whitley Bay is reviving a charitable initiative this festive season, allowing clients to receive a tattoo in exchange for a food donation. David Ashdown, 46, owner of 1920 Tattoo Studio on Station Road, is launching this campaign for the third consecutive year, inviting participants to bring a food contribution valued at a minimum of £50 along with a receipt.

This year, the campaign will run over the weekend of December 20-21. Ashdown has successfully facilitated over 120 tattoos and gathered approximately £7,000 in donations for The Bay Foodbank during the first two years of the initiative. “The first year, I collected cash donations from my customers, but switching to food donations made more sense. It felt like a fair exchange,” Ashdown explained.

He noted that many clients have engaged with the project, often getting their first tattoo as a means of contributing. “This way, we ensure a solid donation each time, which directly helps those in need,” he stated.

The campaign has been streamlined this year, allowing contributions all day on both days. Ashdown encourages anyone interested in supporting the cause to stop by, even if they cannot meet the £50 donation threshold. “People can still contribute to the collection, which will help us reach our goals,” he added.

In addition to receiving donations, Ashdown envisions a collaborative effort among local tattoo artists. “If other artists in the area want to join in later, that would be fantastic. A united approach to support vulnerable people in our community can only have a positive impact,” he remarked.

For further details on David Ashdown’s Christmas campaign benefiting The Bay Foodbank, visit the 1920 Tattoo Studio website. This initiative not only provides tattoos but also fosters community spirit during a season often marked by generosity.