Tattoo Artist · 5 Years
Joan Martinez— Tattoo Artist at Studio AZ Minneapolis
Joan truly embodies the saying "excellence is in the details." Coming from Nicaragua to the US has challenged him in more ways than one — and he came out the other side stronger. Joan is wired to continually improve and make a name for himself in Minneapolis.
“Every detail matters. A tattoo lives on your skin forever, so every line, every shade, every transition has to be intentional.”
All work follows dermatologist-recommended safety and aftercare standards. Studio AZ is licensed by the Minnesota Department of Health.
About Joan Martinez
Joan Martinez's journey as a tattoo artist began as a self-taught creative with a relentless drive to improve. With five years of experience specializing in fine line, realism, and black and grey work, his path into tattooing was unconventional — no formal apprenticeship, no art school. Instead, he taught himself through relentless practice, studying anatomy, and pushing his technical limits until the work spoke for itself.
Originally from Nicaragua, Joan's move to the US shaped both his character and his artistry. The discipline required to build a new life in a new country is the same discipline he brings to every tattoo — meticulous attention to detail, patience with the process, and a refusal to cut corners. Joan's work reflects that mindset in every piece.
At Studio AZ, Joan handles everything from the delicate fine line work Minneapolis clients request to complex multi-session realism sleeves. Spanish is Joan's first language — his portfolio speaks every other one. For English consultations, our coordination team ensures nothing gets lost in translation.
Joan Martinez's Specialties
Realism & Portraits
Joan's realism work captures lifelike detail in skin — portraits, animals, religious imagery, and nature scenes rendered with smooth gradients and precise shading. The realism work his Minneapolis clients request ranges from small forearm pieces to full half-sleeves.
Fine Line
Clean, delicate linework is Joan's signature. From floral designs to geometric patterns and script, his fine line portfolio showcases precision that holds up over time. Ideal for first tattoos and subtle pieces.
Black & Grey
Joan's black and grey work uses tonal depth and contrast to create dimension without color. Polynesian patterns, floral compositions, and large-scale pieces are all within his range.
Custom Designs
Every piece Joan creates starts from scratch. No flash, no templates — just a one-on-one collaboration between you and your artist until the design is exactly right.
Portfolio
Joan Martinez's Work
Book with Joan Martinez
Start with a free consultation at our tattoo shop Minneapolis studio. Explore our custom tattoo services or browse the full studio portfolio. Deposits are fully refundable and applied to your final tattoo cost. Reach out to Studio AZ Tattoo with any questions.
Book with Joan MartinezAlso at Studio AZ:
Andrew Fernandez