Rico

“I grew up in Japan in a house filled with my father's paintings, and I began drawing when I was just a baby. My mother often told me that I drew and painted every day during my childhood.”

“In 2006, I earned a BA in Visual Communication Design from Musashino Art University in Tokyo, Japan. Later, I received a BA in Fine Arts from the Gerrit Rietveld Academy in Amsterdam. My artwork has been showcased in solo and group exhibitions in galleries across Japan, the Netherlands, and Canada. Additionally, I have conducted workshops in Japan and Canada.”

“I have always used various techniques such as drawing, painting, and paper cutting. I also work with light to reveal my unique paper collage creations when they are backlit. About twelve years ago, I began casually creating one-line drawings on long sheets of paper while walking from my house to the hospital to visit my grandmother.”

“I enjoy portraying ordinary subjects—trees, buildings, and people on the street—in an original, positive, and colorful manner. For me, the most beautiful things in life are found in everyday moments. Exploring new techniques and subject matter, and seeing the unexpected outcomes of my work, bring me the most joy in making art.”

“I currently live and work in Cranbrook, British Columbia, Canada.”