Meet Johnny
Johnny Lin is a professional tattoo artist now based in Honolulu, Hawaii, specializing in black and grey realism and fine line micro tattoos. Originally from New York City, Johnny began his creative career as an architectural designer, developing a meticulous eye for detail, proportion, and design flow.
His transition from architecture to tattooing was a natural evolution—turning technical precision into living, wearable art. Johnny’s work reflects a refined balance of technical mastery and emotional depth, transforming client ideas into timeless, personalized tattoos.
From small, subtle fine line tattoos to intricate realism pieces, Johnny’s goal is to create work that feels both intimate and enduring—tattoos that tell a story through craftsmanship and restraint.
He is currently guesting at Kapwa Tattoo Studio in Honolulu from now until November 29th, 2025, offering limited appointments for custom tattoos.
What Sets Him Apart
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Architectural Precision – Johnny’s foundation in architectural design shapes his approach to tattooing, emphasizing symmetry, composition, and balance.
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Refined Realism – His black and grey realism tattoos feature soft gradients, depth, and lifelike detail inspired by natural light and shadow.
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Micro Realism Expertise – Known for ultra-fine detail and clean execution, Johnny excels in creating subtle, small-scale tattoos that retain clarity over time.
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From New York to Honolulu – Bringing East Coast precision to the islands, Johnny combines technical artistry with a relaxed, local sensibility that fits Hawai‘i’s creative spirit.
His Style
Johnny specializes in:
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Black & Grey Realism
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Micro Realism Tattoos
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Fine Line Tattoos
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Nature-Inspired & Minimalist Concepts
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Architectural & Geometric Designs
Each tattoo is thoughtfully designed to complement the wearer’s body and story, reflecting Johnny’s belief that tattooing is both an art form and a collaboration.
