22/09/2026
We’re absolutely gutted to hear of the passing of our old friend Clive Bilham.
Without Clive, Portsmouth Tattoo Fest might never have happened.
He was a massive influence on when we first decided to start the show.
He believed in what we wanted to do and was there supporting us from day one, even making our very first handmade awards.
Over the years, Clive has been a huge part of Portsmouth Tattoo Fest, from exhibiting to judging and always being there to support the show.
Anyone who knew Clive knows he was a proper old-school tattooist. What you saw was what you got. He never held back, said exactly what he thought and was a multi-award-winning artist who knew his craft inside out.
It’s hard to imagine the show without him. We’ll always be grateful for everything he did for us, the memories we’ve made and, most importantly, his friendship.
Our thoughts are with Mandy, his family and everyone who knew and loved him.
You’ll be truly missed, mate. Portsmouth Tattoo Fest won’t be the same without you, but you’ll always be part of it.
Rest easy, our old friend. Until we meet again.
Gary, Rory & everyone at Portsmouth Tattoo Fest