From casual sketches on classmates’ skin to a career in Black and Grey realism, Hank Yang has transformed a simple fascination with drawing into a disciplined and expressive craft. Over the past six years, he has developed a reputation for bold, tension-driven realism resembling a cinematic approach to tattooing.
Working from his private studio in Taiwan and appearing at international conventions, Hank emphasizes the importance of dialogue and trust in every project. For him, each tattoo is more than a technical exercise — it’s a shared process that blends emotion, precision, and light into lasting art.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
Everyone calls me Hank Yang. I’m a tattoo artist from Taiwan, and you can find me on Instagram @yanghank. I specialize in Black and Grey realism and have been tattooing for six years now. It’s been a crazy ride so far, and honestly, I feel like it’s only just getting started.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
Back in middle school, some of my classmates knew I could draw, so they often asked me to use marker pens to sketch designs on their skin. Sometimes, I even drew on myself. One day, a teacher saw us and thought we had gotten real tattoos, it caused a bit of a stir and was strictly forbidden. But that moment planted a seed in my heart. Years later, after dropping out of college, that seed grew into the life I live now as a tattoo artist.
At what point in your life did you become a professional tattoo artist?
After dropping out of college, I spent a year working different jobs before officially starting my tattoo journey under the guidance of my mentor. Back then, resources weren’t as accessible as they are now—it was truly a tough period in my life, but I got through it.
How do you balance creativity with the client’s personal vision?
Most of my clients already know my style and how I approach design when they come to me, so they tend to trust my professional judgment without hesitation. I actually find it really interesting when our ideas collide a bit—it’s during those moments of collaboration that great results often happen. If I think something doesn’t quite work, I’ll be honest about it, and they usually respect my opinion.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Taiwan these days?
The tattoo scene in Taiwan is no longer as closed-off or conservative as it once was. There was a time when people commonly associated tattoos with gang culture, but that perception has completely changed and that’s something to be happy about. At the same time, the industry has become very saturated. Compared to when I first started, it’s now much easier for beginners to enter the field, but also much harder for them to survive in it.
How would you define your current tattoo style and how did you end up focusing on it?
My current tattoo style is Black and Grey realism, and it’s full of tension. Interestingly, I didn’t start out in this style. I was originally learning new school, but early on, clients started requesting realism. As I explored it more, I realized Black and Grey realism is far more than just replicating a photo, it requires a deep understanding of light, emotion, and technique. That challenge drew me in completely. Even now, I still feel there’s so much more to learn in this style.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
Unless a client lives too far away, I usually insist on discussing designs face to face. I believe that seeing the tattoo area in person and having a live conversation is the most accurate and effective approach. I always let the client fully express their ideas first, then I offer suggestions and we brainstorm together. Once everything is confirmed and documented, I ask them to go home and wait while I work on the composition.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Everyone is incredibly skilled these days and honestly, there are so many people out there who are even better than you. The real challenge is figuring out how to stand out and become one of the best in your style. Each artist faces different struggles depending on their weaknesses, but I actually think that’s a good thing. You don’t grow in a comfortable environment, real growth comes through challenge.
What’s a tattoo project that challenged your skills the most?
I put my full effort into every piece I do, but if I had to pick one that really pushed my limits, it would be the full-back tattoo of the goddess Athena. That project has taken the most time to complete so far. I’m also truly grateful to my male model, who stayed with me through long sessions, often getting tattooed late into the night before heading home.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
So far, I’ve participated in tattoo conventions in both Taiwan and Vietnam. Each event brings together artists from different countries, and seeing so many people gathered in one place, all sharing the same passion for tattooing, is such a beautiful thing. Along the way, I’ve made some great connections and met many brothers in the craft, it’s been an amazing journey of friendship and fate.
Did you ever participate in any tattoo contest?
Yes, I’ve participated in several tattoo contests over the past few years. Fortunately, I’ve been lucky enough to win a few awards. Each competition has been a unique challenge and learning experience for me.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
To challenge myself, connect with tattoo artists from different countries, and learn in a positive and inspiring environment. For me, real growth only happens when you step out and explore the world.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for the artists and the public?
I think conventions could include more ways to showcase artists’ work and create interactive experiences, so that people who aren’t familiar with tattooing can better understand the meaning and learning opportunities behind attending a tattoo convention.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
I think it would be the 2022 Saigon Tattoo Expo. It was my first time attending a convention abroad, and I was deeply moved by the atmosphere. The interaction among tattoo artists and the intensity of the competitions were unforgettable. Seeing the work of so many masters left a strong impression on me and sparked a deep interest in attending more conventions in the future.
What advice would you give to first-time artists attending or working at a convention?
Relax, and go enter the competition you’ve always wanted to join. Every tattoo convention is your stage and your opportunity. Be brave and step out there. It’s exhausting, but it’s also a lot of fun!
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
I haven’t thought deeply about this question, but in Taiwan, the industry is becoming more open and also more saturated because everyone is really skilled. It’s getting harder and harder to stand out and be noticed internationally. But that’s exactly what makes it all the more challenging.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
Without a doubt, it’s my two elder brothers, Big Lin and Dylan. They gave me all of my first experiences in tattooing, and I sincerely thank them from the bottom of my heart.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
My past life felt like being dealt a two of diamonds and a seven of spades, an unlucky hand from the start. Yet, making it this far, living with purpose, completing every piece that my clients truly love, and walking away with valuable lessons from every competition I’ve attended, is what I see as my greatest accomplishment.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I believe in always learning and staying humble, while paying close attention to my health and performance. Most importantly, I choose to stay away from people and situations that drain my energy but are beyond my control.
What’s the most meaningful feedback you’ve ever received from a client?
A client once told me his family had rejected him for getting tattooed. But after seeing the piece I did for him, they were shocked and ended up loving it. For me, breaking those boundaries of acceptance is one of the most meaningful things.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
I want to participate in the God of Ink tattoo convention and begin my tattoo journey. If you see this message in your country and like my work, feel free to send me a message, I might be able to start arranging tattoo sessions abroad sooner!
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Currently sponsored by Taiwan YINLONG Tattoo Supply.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
Thank you for taking the time to read. Every artist who devotes themselves to their craft deserves respect. Together, let’s open a new chapter in the world of tattooing!
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