Does where you currently live influence your work?
No, however, now that I am creating at home, I think that if I had a private atelier, I would be able to draw more freely and increase the number of works I create. My dream is to one day build my own studio.
What's your art background? Are you self taught or did you study art?
I learned alcohol ink art by myself. However, I have loved drawing since I was a child, and would write whenever I had free time. I have even thought about going to art school. I also like looking at the sky, landscapes, and flowers, so I think these things influence my work.
Are you a full time artist or do you create around work hours?
I'm a full time artist. However, since I have a chronic illness, I think I draw more slowly than other people to keep my health well.
Describe the type of art you create. What do you love about it?
Alcohol ink art is art in which alcohol ink is dissolved in anhydrous ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, moved using wind from a hair dryer, and left to dry. It's always a miracle because it's a color and design that can only be found at that time. I am always moved by this miracle.
When did you discover resin?
I found out about resin on Instagram about 3 and a half years ago. Many alcohol ink artists around me were also using it, so I felt safe using it.
How has resin impacted your artwork?
Resin adds moisture and shine to the work, and gives healing and hope to those who look at it.
Can you provide a brief rundown of your process
I draw alcohol ink art on waterproof paper and attach it to the wood panel. Then I spray it with a UV-blocking varnish spray and apply a resin coating.
Why do you want to make art? What motivates you to create?
At first, I drew to heal myself. However, as I shared this information on Instagram, the number of people who saw my art and felt the same kind of comfort increased, and I started selling it because they wanted to buy it. I'm very happy that a cycle of happiness has occurred.
Does art help you in other areas of your life?
Of course I think so. When looking at art, I think each person feels some kind of emotion, such as being healed, energized, or encouraged. By doing so, you will surely purify your sad heart, become energized, and improve your work. Even if you think, “I don't really understand”, it is a discovery of your own sensibilities, and I believe that one day it will be useful for you.
What do you hope someone sees or feels when they look at your art?
Many of my works have pale, ephemeral colors and gentle designs. When I create my works, I always hope that they will bring you peace of mind, soothe your soul, and give you the courage to take the first step towards something important. I would be happy if people who look at my art feel the same way.
How do you define success as an artist? What does success look and feel like for you?
That what I wrote at 13 will actually happen, and more and more people will want to buy my art. And what such a joy it would be if a person who became calm through the effects of art could be kind to the people next to them or around them? Whether it's in your private life, at work, or anywhere else. If people have more opportunities to see my paintings and this phenomenon occurs, I would consider it a success for me as an artist.
Where do you sell your work?
We sell them through Instagram DM or my online shop. However, as of now we are only selling within Japan, so we would like to be able to ship overseas someday.
Congratulations on your win, Mai!
Every month, to celebrate our community of artists, ArtResin will send out a 32 oz kit to two lucky people who have tagged us on Instagram, showing the work they've created with ArtResin.
Don't forget to tag YOUR ArtResin work with @art_resin on Instagram, and YOU could be our next winner!
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists.
