We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ayuka Shichinohe a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Ayuka, appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

I learned by being curious! Whatever I found interesting, I tried it. Whether that was seeing an art style I wanted to mimic, taking a different class at school, attending workshops, artist talks or tutorials online, I never let anything stop me from trying something new. By doing that, it gave me familiarity and/or fundamental skills to a lot things that I got to apply to several different projects which led me to learn even more!

Ayuka, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am an oil painter, mural artist, plushie maker, graphic designer, industrial designer and social media content creator. That may sound like a lot but that stems from my love of creating art that can positively influence people.

With my fine art, painting passion, I hope to bring perspective to our views on nature, productizing animals and appreciating the food in front of us. I am inspired by my Japanese cultural background and their relationship with food and animals. Taking only what you need and respecting the life sacrificed to nourish us, so my subjects are often fishes out of the sea in a market or packaged animal products.

Fish With Legs is my plushie small business, creating many different fishes with human legs. All products are designed and handmade by me! I sell through local art markets and online Etsy store. It makes my day seeing people smile or laugh when they see my silly creatures and get to take home a new cuddly friend.

As a designer, I enjoy being able to provide my creative skills to better a brand/business. Designers are essential to communicate to audiences and creating long-lasting products that leaves an impression on the people and the brand.

As a social media content creator, I want to showcase my story and process to hopefully influence people to follow their dreams and passion!

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect to me is the connections I make with people through my craft. I’ve met the kindest people, life-long friend, mentors, mentees. Had long philosophical conversations, short and sweet talks to just a smile passing by. All of these interactions and relationships with artists and art appreciators has been truly meaningful and motivating for me to keep doing what I do.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Being a creative is a unique journey where what we do is not just a profession but a deep-seated passion. Our work seamlessly merges with our personal interests. One aspect of creativity is the absence of guidelines and a path to success. There is no definitive “right” or “wrong” way of doing things, unlike many other professions where specific educational qualifications and professional training are mandatory.
I’ve always followed my principle of “if I’m not having fun, it’s not worth my time” making my work more than just a job but a way of life. This might seem simple, naive, or effortless to non-creatives, but in reality, being a creative requires a lot of hard work and dedication because there are no tests, certificates, or degrees to guide us. We carve our own paths in a challenging but rewarding journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ayukashichi.myportfolio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayukart_/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayuka-shichinohe/
• Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ayukart