One of D.C.’s most iconic art museums is giving visitors a chance to take home something more permanent than a souvenir.
On September 3rd, The Phillips Collection will host Phillips Flash, a special edition of its monthly Phillips after 5 event featuring flash tattoos inspired by works in the museum’s collection.
The museum is collaborating with Cry Baby Studios to offer the tiny, art-inspired tattoos, which will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for eligible ticket holders.
And while not everyone who gets in line is guaranteed to leave with new ink, this may be one of the most unusual ways D.C. art lovers can connect with the museum’s collection.
What is Phillips Flash?
Phillips Flash is a special edition of Phillips after 5, the museum’s monthly after-hours event, taking place on Thursday, September 3rd from 5 pm to 8:30 pm.
The headline attraction is the tattoo pop-up with Cry Baby Studios, where guests ages 18 and older can opt for a 1- to 1.5-inch flash tattoo inspired by artworks in The Phillips Collection.
The tattoos are available only on arms and legs, and guests cannot be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The line for tattoos opens at 3 pm, while tattooing begins at 5 pm—though the museum stresses that joining the line does not guarantee that you’ll receive a tattoo.
There will be plenty happening beyond the ink, too, including a performance by Justin Trawick and the Common Good, a DJ set from DJ Stylus, an art criticism session with Strictly Critical, a Spotlight Talk with a Phillips Educator, and the announcement of the People’s Choice Award winner for Tomorrow the Sun Will Rise: The Phillips Collection Juried Exhibition.
What kind of flash tattoo designs can you choose from?
The flash designs were created specifically for the event by Cry Baby Studios and are inspired by works from The Phillips Collection’s collection.
The museum has shared a preview image of the available flash sheet, giving visitors an idea of the small, stylized designs that will be offered. Because these are flash tattoos, guests will choose from the pre-designed artwork rather than requesting a custom tattoo.
Each tattoo will measure approximately 1 to 1.5 inches, making them a relatively subtle way to wear a piece of art-inspired design.
Keep in mind that tattoos are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early may be your best shot at securing one. The tattoo line opens two hours before the event itself begins.
How much are tickets to Phillips Flash?
Tickets to Phillips Flash cost $20, the regular admission price for Phillips after 5.
Phillips members get in free, although reservations are encouraged. Importantly, a valid Phillips after 5 ticket is required to be eligible for the tattoo pop-up.
The ticket price includes access to the evening’s broader programming, from live music and the DJ set to art talks and other activities—not just the chance to get tattooed.
However, because the tattoos are available on a first-come, first-served basis and joining the line does not guarantee a tattoo, visitors should think of the $20 ticket as admission to the full after-hours museum experience rather than a guaranteed tattoo reservation.
