MASAO
Arriving in Maui from Venice, California in 2007 and being born in Sao Paulo, Brasil, Masao Fukayama has forged his way through the tattoo industry for almost two decades. After opening his own tattoo shop, Zen Tattoo & Art Gallery, on Maui in 2012, his artistry transformed into the surf industry. Making his mark, not only as a team rider for the popular Surfboard company on Maui but as an art designer for the surf brand. His tribal tattoo art can be seen on JL boards all over the world, 808 Maui Clothing, and local motorcycle club logo. He has also created his own freehand custom tribal “Vans” shoes. His commitment to the industry of tattoo and surf has created a worldwide following of tattoo and water sport enthusiasts traveling to Maui specifically seeking his custom contemporary polynesian style tribal tattoos inspired in polynesian and brazilian tribals.
With in the heart and soul of this artist is an endearing non-profit project named Casa do Conto (@casadocontoitacare). A piece of land within the favelas of Itacare, Bahia Brasil designated with a one-room dwelling for Masao. After moving to the United States, he gained support from friends and local teachers by starting a program for the children within the favela of Itacare. Fast forward to today, Masao and his volunteers have successfully grown a very small dwelling into an educational facility. Providing more areas of learning and materials needed to continue the hands-on education, skateboarding, and martial arts for young growing minds and bodies, year after year. Through his charitable contributions to his Casa do Conto project, supporting children with no access to education, Masao was recognized and honored by Maui Jim, with the opportunity to join Maui Jim as an Ambassador. He is continually supported by Maui Jim till today.
Masao’s talent for art and surf has combined a unique lifestyle, allowing his passion for life and art to continue on a journey of creativity, and longevity.
instagram@casadocontoitacare @zentattoomaui @masaotattoomaui
