MISSION
To build a community with high expectations—where accountability, personal growth, artistic excellence, and professional development are the standard.We are here to challenge, support, and inspire one another to become the best versions of ourselves—with and without a machine in hand.
VISION
We envision a tattoo industry where artists are creatively fulfilled, financially independent, and supported by a network that values growth, collaboration, and excellence. Spring Break 99 aims to shift the culture of continuing education by fostering spaces where artists can unlock their full potential—developing their work, their voice, and their business with clarity and purpose.
BACK STORY
Unique as a seminar series in the tattoo industry, Spring Break 99 was conceptualized as a way for artists to come together and share their love of the craft in an environment designed to unlock creativity. During the Covid pandemic, when the convention circuit came to a halt, tattooing was declared a non-essential business and the future of the industry felt uncertain. Friends Michael Perry and Robby Latos were texting from opposite sides of the country.
“I miss conventions,” one said.
“No, you don’t,” the other replied.
From that moment, an idea started to take shape—a way for tattooers to reclaim what they loved about conventions: the camaraderie, the learning, the shared energy with friends—without the chaos, the burnout, and the sense that something was missing.
That idea evolved into Spring Break 99—a seminar series created to educate and inspire tattoo artists at every stage of their journey. Whether you're an emerging artist or a seasoned professional, Spring Break 99 offers a space to reconnect with your passion, refine your creativity, and gain clarity in your business and artistic vision.
With one-on-one portfolio reviews, presentations from respected industry leaders, and a handpicked group of attendees committed to growth, Spring Break 99 delivers a retreat-style experience where ideas flow freely, inspiration is constant, and real connections are forged. Attendees leave not only with valuable insights into both the foundational principles and cutting-edge innovations of tattooing—spanning tools, techniques, technology, and the timeless values that ground the craft—but as members of a creative community committed to purposeful growth.
Each retreat is designed to foster long-term artistic and professional sustainability, equipping artists with the skills, mindset, and strategies needed to evolve their craft and build lasting careers. Founded in February 2021 by artists Michael Perry and Robby Latos, along with operations architect and founding member Siabhan Downs, Spring Break 99 continues to evolve with the same mission: to offer a transformative space where artists—new or experienced—can reignite their love for tattooing and take their practice to the next level.