We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ayumi Nakao a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Ayumi thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.
When I visited an artist’s studio in New York, I realized I wanted to become an artist. He was actually living and painting in the studio, which was exactly how I imagined an artist’s life.
I have loved drawing and painting since I was a child. Although I knew it would be difficult to make a living as an artist, I couldn’t give up on my passion for creating, so I kept painting.
The month-long trip to New York was a great opportunity—it felt like I was connected to him and his studio by a thin thread. He showed me that my dream could become real.
I realized that we only live once, so I decided to follow my heart. I decided to become a painter.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I have loved drawing since I was a child, and my interest in creating things led me to study on my own, eventually pursuing my passion at design school and art school. I create paintings that connect with people’s emotions. While much of my work is based on my own experiences, I believe the feelings expressed in my art can resonate with others who live in this society. My hope is that my paintings can heal wounded hearts, offer comfort and encouragement, and provide the beauty and strength needed to keep moving forward.
For those who are unfamiliar with my work, I invite you to take a look. Some might find it unsettling, while others may be drawn to it. I want to connect with those who appreciate my art, as I believe that shared values create meaningful connections. This is my form of communication, and it’s what gives my life purpose—I feel this is what I am meant to do.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
In addition to painting, I am also interested in materials and techniques I have never used before, such as printmaking and sculpture. Challenging yourself with unfamiliar fields and materials expands creativity. Ultimately, I want to make a living by creating art in my everyday life.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
When I capture a beautiful line in a figure, or when I see a natural texture in the paint that I’ve never seen before, and it settles perfectly on the canvas, or when someone connects with my work—those are the moments I find most rewarding.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayumi.nakao/
