A special milestone in A-Dem's career was taking part in the Empire State Tattoo Expo in New York. For him it was not only one of the most famous tattoo conventions in the world, but also his very first trip to the USA.
Together with his long-time client and now friend Robin, he travelled to New York to present a back piece he had tattooed on stage. Against international competition and numerous elaborate colour works, his piece prevailed and was awarded 1st place in the category 'Best Back Piece'.
But the evening was not over yet. Just as A-Dem and Robin were about to leave the stage, the jury called them back. Moments later came the next surprise: for another tattoo, A-Dem was additionally awarded 2nd place in the category 'Best Portrait'.
Winning two awards on his very first trip to the United States and his first participation in a US convention remains one of the most defining moments of his career to this day. The experience, the atmosphere of New York and the recognition from an international expert jury confirmed his path and show that his work can hold its own at an international level.