The most frightening 22 photos from Colombia's Cali Tattoo Festival

The three-day event in Colombia attracts 250 tattooists from all over the world as well as thousands of visitors who are desperate to get inked by the best in the business.

Implants, head spikes, forked tongues, ear modifications and, of course, a lot of tattoos, were all on display over the weekend as enthusiasts competed for the most diabolical look.

Tattoo artist Emilio Gonzalez, from Venezuela, was just one of many showing off his terrifying body modifications. He had complemented his facial tattoos with horn-like piercings in his forehead, a reptilian-style split tongue and tunnels in his ears and lower lip.

While Colombian artist modifier Damian Carnicero was willing to go one step further for the sake of his (body) art.

The tattoo aficionado had metal meat hooks inserted on his back through his skin before being hoisted up several feet to dangle above the crowd below.

But it would appear that Carnicero is a no stranger to pain.

He boats numerous tattoos, as well as a forked tongue and has had part of his ear removed. In fact, he's such a fan, he even has the word 'pain' tattooed on his face.

The popular festival, which ran from 11 to 13 September, also featured performances from alternative bands, comedians, a 'freak show' and Thai boxing matches.

While anyone who didn't want a permanent reminder of the event could choose to be decorated with body paint rather than a tattoo.

(dailymail.co.uk)