FRAN MASSINO

“Fran and I worked together almost monthly for 2 years. I searched a long time for a tattooer in the area who specialized in Japanese tattooing. Beyond looking at talent, it was incredibly important for me to find someone who was respectful of and honored my culture. Throughout three separate projects, Fran was always very thoughtful and made sure to include nods to my Okinawan roots - and even worked in beautiful small details like the pattern of a kimono that my parents hang in their home. Both he and the shop always made sure that I felt safe and comfortable with every visit, which was very much appreciated while we were working on a full back piece. Our last project together was a traditional Okinawan tattoo called hajichi, something that meant a lot to me - and I knew I could trust Fran with it. His work is beautiful, and my artwork from him has brought me closer to my culture.”

"I had the pleasure and honor of getting my first tattoo (a full sleeve) from Fran, who welcomed me right away. The entire process was comfortable and fun. I appreciated that sessions were regular, flexible, and as long or as short as I wanted. He set my nerves at ease, provided thoughtful reference, and crafted a tattoo I treasure each day for the rest of my life. It's clear that Fran pushes himself with each piece and never settles for anything less than art.”

“Fran Massino is the go to guy in the Baltimore Area for Japanese and Asian artwork. He is the authority in the subject matter and knows the tradition, history, and rules. He’s a pleasure to talk to during the tattooing process and his shop is meticulously clean. If your looking to get a Irezumi, I highly recommend him!”

“I got my first ever tattoo from Fran. It was a full arm piece. To jump straight in to a large piece without ever getting a tattoo before can be scary. From the consultation to the first appointment to the last appointment, Fran was awesome. He is laidback and funny which always made me feel at ease. He cared about me as a client by always asking how I was doing, if I wanted a break, or how long I wanted to sit for. That full arm piece was in 2016 and still looks incredible today. I have gone on to get many many more tattoos, including my other arm done by Fran. This positive and lasting first experience paved the way for my appreciation of tattoos as an art form. I couldn't have asked for a better start into the world of tattoos.”

“The tattoos I wanted had to be the most special of all my tattoos because they were to be full sleeves, and I would see them every day for the rest of my life, and they were to tell a story about my life. I have many tattoos and I was 65 years old when after months of looking for the right artist, I found Fran. After speaking with him and asking him to draw Fou Dog from memory I knew I had found that special artist I was looking for. At first I was extremely disappointed that my first appointment would be six months later, but I quickly learned it’s the price of gaining access to one of the best. From beginning to end, it took almost six months to complete my sleeves and during that time Fran became much more than a friend, through his work he became a part of me. Every day when I look at my arms, I smile with pride in the tattoos given to me by Fran. They capture my story in such a beautiful way and I can never look at them without remembering the journey I took with Fran!

There are plenty of tattoo artists and there is only one Fran. If you are lucky enough to secure an appointment with Fran, honor it and he will honor you with a tattoo that tells your story!”

“I’ve always enjoyed getting tattooed by Fran. Super professional, welcoming, & has awesome work! I consistently get compliments on my sleeve on a daily basis. Initially I was looking for a traditional Japanese artist in the Baltimore area and fran far exceeded my expectations. During the drawing of my sleeve I was blown away how Fran was able to take a few of my thoughts and just transform them into a permanent work of art. My tattoos represent wisdom, strength, and the beauty of life itself. If you’re looking for a extraordinary talented artist in Baltimore or the entirety of the DMV area, look no further.

That’s my testimonial🙏🏽“

“My experience with getting my tattoo at Stay Humble Tattoo was absolutley the best. Fran Massino is an absolute professional and exceptional at his craft. Every appointment started on time, and the vibe in the studio was so cool. Everyone at Stay Humble is so talented and they take exceptional care in providing a clean and pleasant environment for their clients. I can't say enough great things about how pleased I am with getting both sleeves done by Fran, as they look amazing. He freehand drew my tattoo and worked through a cover-up and the final look is nothing short of amazing! I must say if you are looking for a true artist and amazing looking work Fran is your guy! Can't wait to get back in your chair again Fran! You are the best in the game.“

"The entire experience of getting my sleeve designed and completed by Fran far exceeded my expectations. Fran truly listened to what I wanted from my sleeve and made a lot of really great suggestions on how to make it even cooler- the experience was very collaborative and enjoyable. The shop was always immaculate and the vibe was fun and relaxed. Fran is more than an incredible artist and tattooer. He is intelligent and thoughtful, and an all around terrific human.”

“After months of looking for an artist I could trust to create the type of traditional Japanese sleeve I had long wanted, I found Fran. As a long time follower and fan of artists like Chris O'Donnell, Horitomo, and Mike Rubendall, I saw in Fran's portfolio the same characteristics I had long admired in those titans of Japanese tattooing: natural artistry paired with a strong technical skillset, and a rare ability to create a life-like sense of motion and flow that, in my eyes, separates good tattoos from great. Working with Fran was an even more positive experience than I had anticipated. Fran listened to my ideas, offered his own, and ultimately produced a tattoo that far exceeded my highest expectations. I get compliments on my sleeve from strangers nearly every day, and two years later I still find myself admiring the clean lines and fine details across my arm. A professional, thoughtful, and immensely talented tattoo artist, I can't recommend working with Fran highly enough.”

“Fran is the real deal. From day one, he was nothing but professional and made the entire process a breeze. Fran not only has an understanding and deep respect for Japanese tattooing, but also true artistic talent. Using a photo of a Buddha that my wife took in Asia in conjunction with my suggestion of a koi and cherry blossoms, Fran designed a killer sleeve that I’m incredibly proud of. The finished product is better than I imagined; an authentic blend of traditional Japanese and Fran’s unique personal style. It was a tall order, but I had hoped to finish the sleeve before leaving on a year long round-the-world trip in just four months. Despite his packed schedule and the time that the piece demanded, Fran crushed it. Over the 25+ hours, I trusted him entirely and felt 100% comfortable at all times. I can’t wait to get back in there for another tattoo and great conversation. ”