Today we’d like to introduce you to Satoko Okuno.
Hi Satoko, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am a figurative painter and ceramics artist originally from Tokyo, Japan (born in 1991). Currently, I reside in the vibrant city of LA, where I find both inspiration and opportunity for my artistic pursuits. While I am presently a student at ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, this is not my first college experience. A decade ago, I obtained a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Tokyo, which led me down a professional path as a business consultant and service designer for a span of eight years. During that time, I engaged with clients primarily in the consumer goods industry, offering comprehensive business strategy consulting services. I also ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing my own floral business that specialized in bouquets and lifestyle floral goods. These ventures defined my twenties within the realm of business.
However, life has its twists, and a longing to resurrect a childhood aspiration eventually tugged at my heartstrings. Amidst the hustle and bustle, I found myself yearning to embrace my artistic inclinations once more. Fueled by a love for drawing, I made the bold decision to major in Illustration, which ultimately brought me to my current juncture. Although my initial intention was to tread the path of an illustrator, my journey at ArtCenter unveiled a profound affinity for painting and ceramics. This discovery shifted my trajectory toward the world of fine art.
In my artistic expression, animals and mythological creatures reign as my muses. I breathe life into them through dynamic mixed-media paintings, characterized by textured impasto techniques, and glazed stoneware. What sets my creations apart is their ability to radiate a warmth reminiscent of childhood innocence. Each piece serves as an open invitation, beckoning viewers into a realm of comfort and security. Rooted in the values of “gentleness” and “humor,” my approach accentuates these beings’ roles as guardians, infusing my artwork with a profound sense of solace and joy.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Navigating my role as a business consultant during my twenties was an arduous journey. Days stretching from 9:00 AM to 1:00 AM were the norm, and on occasion, I found myself burning the midnight oil until 4:00 AM, engrossed in material preparation alongside my boss.
Subsequently, even as the pace of my work settled into a more manageable rhythm, my schedule remained bustling. This was especially true during the phase when I was gearing up to apply to ArtCenter. Juggling work responsibilities, portfolio preparation, and attending croquis sessions 2-3 times a week left me perpetually engaged.
Once I embarked on the ArtCenter program, my days transformed into a quest for artistic self-discovery. Each day became an exploration of different artistic avenues, a search for the true calling within me. Though I’m now steering my path toward the realm of Fine Art, I didn’t limit myself solely to this. I delved into graphic design courses like Typography and Motion Design, each proving to be a wellspring of inspiration. These experiences also taught me what resonated with me and what didn’t, gradually crystallizing my artistic preferences.
Amidst the myriad interests that captivate me, discerning what I didn’t like proved to be a challenge. However, by immersing myself in various experiences and exposing myself to diverse forms of art, clarity began to take shape. The diverse experiences allowed me to distill my inclinations and gradually discern what truly resonated with me.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I already wrote this in the previous question, but animals and mythological creatures reign as my muses. I breathe life into them through dynamic mixed-media paintings characterized by textured impasto techniques and glazed stoneware. What sets my creations apart is their ability to radiate a warmth reminiscent of childhood innocence. Each piece serves as an open invitation, beckoning viewers into a realm of comfort and security. Rooted in the values of “gentleness” and “humor,” my approach accentuates these beings’ roles as guardians, infusing my artwork with a profound sense of solace and joy.
I used to create realistic portraitures, with one notable piece securing the esteemed first prize at the London International Creative Competition—an accomplishment that brought me great pride. However, my artistic path has taken a turn, now focusing on capturing animals through a more graphic lens. While immersed in the realm of realistic portraiture, I often grappled with a sense of inner conflict, as if I were battling against some unseen force. This perception stood at odds with my belief that art should be a safe space for me, a realm of refuge rather than confrontation. Driven by this sentiment, I sought out alternative subjects and styles that resonated with this view. This journey led me to my present artistic pursuit: a representation of animals that embodies a more graphic aesthetic.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Embracing a mindset of exploration is of paramount importance. Venturing into diverse genres of art and design, experimenting with an array of mediums and materials, and acquainting oneself with digital tools all contribute to holistic artistic growth. While my prior involvement in law and business might not seem intrinsically aligned with my current artistic pursuits, it profoundly influences my work ethic and offers invaluable supplementary insight.
Contact Info:
- Website: satokookunostudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/satoko_artwork/
Image Credits
Satoko Okuno
