William Zwick at Black Cat Tattoo in Honolulu

Zwick is a Honolulu-based artist, educator, and founder of Zwick Academy of Fine Art

(ZAFA). He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Laguna College of Art and Design in

2010 before continuing his studies at the Florence Academy of Art in Italy, where he graduated

in 2012. During his final year, he was invited to teach and received recognition for Best Painting

of the Year. Since returning to Hawaii, William has dedicated himself to the study and teaching

of classical drawing and painting, helping students develop strong foundational skills through

workshops, private instruction, and long-term artistic mentorship.

In 2013, William founded ZAFA, a school devoted to classical realism and the traditions of fine

art. In 2023, he met Richie and quickly discovered a shared passion for craftsmanship, artistic

growth, and building creative communities. Their ongoing collaboration brings together the

worlds of fine art and tattooing, creating opportunities for artists to learn from one another, push

their skills further, and participate in a broader creative culture. William currently continues his

work as a painter and instructor while also pursuing tattooing as an extension of his lifelong

commitment to drawing, design, and visual storytelling.

  • Realism

  • classical painterly style

William Zwick

Tattoo Work

Paintings & other Art

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