Today we’d like to introduce you to Meiko Takechi Arquillos.
Meiko Takechi, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I grew up in Tokyo until I was sixteen years old. While in high school, I came to the United States on my own with a secret desire to become a writer and intention to change the world. During my college years, while completing a degree in sociology, I discovered photography. After several years of honing my own unique style and finding my voice in photography, I started photographing editorial portraiture in San Francisco, and nowadays I work mostly in advertising shooting still-life and people. My work tends to be playful, lighthearted, colorful, and graphic. I do like advertising because it gives me a chance to share images with people who normally would not go to museums and galleries to see art. I like its accessibility. Infusing creativity in unexpected places is fun. I photograph everything from kids fashion to cosmetics.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I love colors and graphics composition mixed with whimsical and lighthearted sensibility. I spend a lot of time thinking about concepts and coming up with ideas is a huge part of my creative process… Spending time with my daughter, traveling, and (sometimes) random conversations I overhear on streets and in shops also inspire me.
I always say I know I have accomplished something when my photographs make people smile.
In your view, what is the biggest issue artists have to deal with?
I think the biggest challenge has always been myself. It is so easy to choose not to create because I get afraid… It takes a big amount of courage to pour your soul into creating something and share your work for the world to judge you. I always have to remind myself creativity is all about process and not about the result or outcome (how well something is received.)
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.meikophoto.com
- Instagram: @meikophoto
Image Credit:
Meiko Takechi Arquillos
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