About us | FO Tatt Fest

The history of fo tatt fest

It all began around 2011, when Fjølnir started exploring the idea of hosting a tattoo convention in the Faroe Islands. The idea had first come up the year before, when a friend suggested it to him, and it stayed with him long enough to grow into something more concrete.

Not long after, Fjølnir brought Palli on board. What started as a shared project quickly turned into a strong friendship, and together they began shaping what would become Tat Fest. Year by year, they built an event that brought together tattooing, music, and other art forms in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Fjølnir envisioned more than just a tattoo convention; he desired a jubilant gathering showcasing live music and diverse artistic expressions—a true festival experience. Hence, the name “Tatt Fest”, which is intended to capture this lively celebration's spirit.

The man, the myth, the legend. The Fjølnir.

Fjølnir and Palli at Tatt Fest 2014

As preparations for Tatt Fest 2017 got underway, Fjølnir reached out to Karin, inviting her to join the team and oversee administrative duties. With neither Fjølnir nor Palli residing in the Faroe Islands anymore, Karin's assistance allowed them to focus on other aspects of the event. Over time, Karin became an indispensable member of the team, joining Fjølnir and Palli as the trio of key organizers.

Tragically, Fjølnir's sudden and unexpected passing occurred in December 2021. Following much deliberation, Palli and Karin made the decision to honor Fjølnir's memory by continuing his vision and preserving his legacy. Thus, Tatt Fest 2022 served as a poignant celebration of Fjølnir, bringing to fruition all the ideas and dreams he had for the festival.

While Palli and Karin were committed to upholding Fjølnir's legacy, they recognized the need for some adjustments moving forward. In the wake of 2021, the organization underwent a restructuring phase with the addition of Laura, Benjamin, Brandur, and Halgerð to the board. Although they had all been involved with Tatt Fest since its inception, their roles now became crucial components of a well-coordinated team. Laura assumed the role of media manager, Benjamin took on the responsibility of overseeing music, while Brandur became the head of visual arts. Halgerð, who had previously served in a similar capacity before relocating to Denmark, resumed her role as head of staff, ensuring smooth operations behind the scenes.

In the years that followed, this strengthened structure allowed Tatt Fest to continue growing while staying true to its roots. As the festival evolved, so too did the roles within the team, with responsibilities gradually shifting to meet new circumstances and ensure continuity. However, Palli, who had been a valued part of Tatt Fest’s journey, stepped back from his involvement due to family commitments and his life in Iceland. His contributions over the years have been an important part of shaping the festival, and we remain grateful for his dedication and the role he played in bringing the event to life.

During this period, Karin had taken on an increasingly central role in planning and coordinating the festival. By January 2025, Karin officially assumed the role of head coordinator within a team in which all members contribute equally. Tatt Fest has since evolved into a fully Faroese-led festival.