InterviewFeatured Artist

― Please briefly introduce yourself.

 I was born in a land rich in nature in Hokuriku, and moved to Tokyo when I got married. I was working as an office worker at a public institution, but a serious illness was discovered and I was forced to recuperate. After that, I studied Buddhism for several years, and I had a relationship with a monk, and I was ordained at a temple on the main mountain. I learned Buddhist painting at a temple and is currently working part-time at the nursing department of a university hospital.

― How did you encounter Buddhist painting?

I wanted to paint Buddhist paintings more than 10 years ago. I was attracted to Buddhist paintings that combined my love for art and Buddhist teachings. 

― Why do you paint Buddhist paintings?

There are times when I want to draw myself, but sometimes I think that Buddha wants to save people in the world, so I am drawing Buddhist paintings. 

― Have you loved drawing and making things since you were little?

I think I liked drawing. He also liked music and literature, and may have had a rich imagination. 

― Is there anything important to you in creating your work?

I strive to live a healthy life and a clean life with Buddhist essence. By keeping your mind pure, I think that the Buddha will appear in the picture. I think that the attitude and mindset of drawing Buddhist paintings are also important. 

― Are there any painters who have influenced you?

Buddhist paintings of the Heian period, Kawai Gyokudo, Murakami Kadake, Hirayama Ikuo, etc. 

― Do you do anything to get inspiration for drawing?

I like to see natural landscapes and creatures. In addition, I have been allowed to go to temples and other places and refer to ancient Buddhist paintings. I hope that Buddhist paintings can express the salvation that people are looking for. 

― Are there any exhibitions or events that left an impression on you?

This is an exhibition in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, sponsored by Qualiart Co., Ltd. It was my first time to exhibit overseas, so I felt like the world had expanded. In addition, I am grateful that the art book "Creations of Japan Art 25" also includes Dainichi Tathagata.

― Please tell us about the work you have worked on so far, which you think is the most "like me!" Also, please tell us why you think so.

This is Dainichi Tathagata. He is also a guardian deity and a Buddha who is always helping us. 

― What kind of thoughts do you want to convey to those who see your work?

I think that people are subconsciously looking for salvation, so I hope that people will look at Buddhist paintings and be interested in healing, salvation, and Buddha's teachings, and that Buddha will help them.

― Finally, can you tell us your thoughts on future work?

Due to the spread of corona infection, the whole world was confused by an event that had never been experienced before. I think that the values of the past have collapsed and new values are required. I would be happy if each person could cherish their own hearts and feel the happiness of the Buddha's presence and teachings by looking at the Buddhist paintings.