Hundreds of tattoo enthusiasts gathered in Mexico City's World Trade Centre for the Tattoo Art Mex 2012 convention.

The convention, which brings together dozens of Mexico City tattoo artists, also showcased body modification, body painting and graffiti.

Consuelo Rodriguez, a local resident getting her first tattoo at the convention, said she chose a flower tattoo because to her it represents the positive aspects of her life.

"This tattoo represents life to me. It's a flower; it's a rose, one of my favourites. I love flowers," she said.

Among those expected to attend the convention is Maria Jose Cristerna.

She is known as Mexico's vampire woman because she is covered in tattoos, has dental fangs, titanium horn implants and has more than thirty piercings.

Event organizers expect 20,000 people to visit the convention over the weekend.