of dreams, time & space

It's been in the works for quite some time now, and finally, it's ready!  Well, Lala definitely is!  I am happy to announce that I will be having my third, and probably last show in Tokyo for the next bit.

The paintings to be featured in this time will reflect the atmosphere, feeling, and things that inspire me to daydream.  Lala and My Little Book of Happiness were dreamt up in a cafe. So, I cannot be happier to be showing at Jalk Coffee, a place that gives me a sense of serenity, happiness, and being at home--especially when am having their amazing café au lait made with their in-house roasted beans, warm fluffy toasts, and heavenly handmade desserts!

Along with a number of paintings of Lala (in her signature black turtleneck unlike my previous shows--fans of My Little Book of Happiness will definitely be in for a treat), will also paint some of things that I have personally seen and experience at Jalk Coffee.

Please come join us for:

of dreams, time & space
Sun May 1 - Sun May 29 2016

Jalk Coffee
Ando Building 1F
4-19-4 Eifuku, Suginami-ku
Tokyo

10 AM - 7 PM, Closed Mondays
jalkcoffee.com

ヤルクコーヒー
東京都杉並区永福4-19-4
安藤ビル1F

***I will personally be there on all Sundays in May from around 12 PM to 4:30 PM.

Since the exhibition is really about time spent in cafes, it is highly recommended that visitors of the show, would enjoy viewing the paintings while soaking up the atmosphere over a cup of amazing Jalk Coffee or tea (the toasts and cakes are lovely too!).

And please kindly message me in advance if you would like to have a cup of coffee with me there. Of course, on a different day other than Sundays is possible as well.

Thank you very much and am looking forward to seeing everyone there soon!***

http://www.facebook.com/events/783572698453073/

http://www.facebook.com/events/1343311685684607/

bubbles at Tokyo Midtown

Started painting my bubbles only cause someone I know asked me about a possible collaboration, but when things didn't work out, I continued to paint them anyways, since painting made me happy. I even painted them when I had other deadlines to meet--am an idiot!

And where did my bubbles go? Who would have thought that in less than a year's time, they would end up at one of my favourite spots, Tokyo Midtown of all places!! And as their 40 m long spring campaign window display!!

From my humble A3 painting to an amazing 40 m!! I would like to thank everyone who was involved in this massive project, cause it is crazy as it is amazing!! Am so, so grateful!! From now until Thu Apr 21--please go see it if you have the time at the B1 floor area that connects Odeo & Hibya lines to Tokyo Midtown.

Regarding the work-in-progress pictures, the A3 painting itself was a challenge for much because I usually painting this series on paper 1/4 of that size. The original painting that was used for the proposal is on the right hand side corner of the last picture. Just painting on the A3 size paper took me hours, close to 20 of just bubbles. Think have became a bubble myself!!  Hahaha......

the stars - A Display

The stars. It's a part of my daydreaming universe.  And of course, many girls are interested in the astrological signs too.  These were the main reasons why I painted "the stars" series.  The paintings were briefly on show in April, and now they have the chance to make their second major public appearance.

Was pleasantly surprised when I was given the opportunity to extend otona kyutto until the end of October. But after some thought, decided that it might be better to switch up the theme, and display the stars series along with few space related pieces instead.  This way, it will have a fresh feeling, and may even bring some starry connections to the customers of this lovely restaurant!

I will stop short of calling this a "show," but rather a "display".  So, please come visit the stars display from wed oct 1 to fri oct 31 at plate tokyo.

plate tokyo
1f 1-11-6 Nishiazabu, Minato, Tokyo
Everyday from 12 PM to 12 AM (last order)

~ Day 10 Urara-chan & Lala's new home(s)

It's been crazy, in a very good sense, since the opening of otona kyutto!  I made so many new friends and met many old ones too!  And it's not even half way through the show yet.

The best part is that I get to chat with people--talking about art, food, and other things, to enjoy some delicious food, and the chance to show my original works along with my digital ones.  Some were pleasantly surprised at the fact they were getting the originals of the LINE Stickers they are using!

Yes, Urara-chan and Lala have found news homes!!  Am always very happy when people I know have my work up on their walls, but it humbles me when people I have just met or didn't even know decide to purchase my original paintings.  I really can't thank everyone enough!

And the opening party on the 6th was extremely successful, only because of the people who showed up to support me, and that of course including the amazing DJs Kei Shiratori & Yutaka Kitamura, my friend who had kindly arrange for my yukata, and the amazing staff of plate tokyo!  Of course, I have to share with you the beautiful flowers and red sparkling wine I received.  Red sparkling?!  You heard right!!

There is this priceless human connection full of positive energy that others bring to me, and I hope I can do the same for others.  There is still 20 plus days to go.  So, please come by and say hi, and let's spread the joy around!!

Highlights: Honda RA272

The 1965 Honda RA272, the first Formula One race car that won a Japanese carmarker its Grand Prix title. Saw the real thing last year at Tokyo Motor Show, and decided that I have to paint it (just like the 1935 Nissan Datsun rabbit motif)!  What a beauty it was and still is!!  It is one of the midokoro or "highlights" of and reason for otona kyutto.

otona kyutto Day 1: Setup and Lunch

Lala and Urara-chan have happily made themselves at home at plate tokyo!! Thank you to Ayano-san and her wonderful staff at plate tokyo for making this possible.

Autumn is finally here, and otona kyutto starts today! Was setting up since 9:30 this morning.  I needed lots of help to pull this exhibition off.  Am very glad it was done on time, and we could enjoy a fantastic lunch--you can tell I love their food, since there are as many pictures of food as my paintings!  Hahaha......

Yes, we are all waiting for you!!  Please come by, have a delicious meal and or drink, while enjoying some artwork.  Paintings on display include "my favourite thing series"--vintage Miura, Lady Dior......and of course Lala and Urara-chan. You can even see some of the original paintings used for my LINE Stickers!

otona kyutto

Mon Sep 1 – Tue Sep 30 2014
plate tokyo
1f 1-11-6 Nishiazabu, Minato, Tokyo
Everyday from 12 PM to 12 AM (last order)

plate tokyo
ホテル & レジデンス六本木
東京都港区西麻布1-11-6 1f

A Sneak Preview II: Lottusse - Cambridge Oxfords

Here's another preview for next week's show, otona kyutto.  I was lucky enough to have tried on many pairs Lottusse, the Spanish heritage footwear brand with over 130 years of history, at a special viewing last month.  Was amazingly surprised at the comfort, look & feel, and quality of their shoes.  Fell in love with their "Cambridge" oxfords, and just had to paint it!  Now, am waiting to own my personal pair of customized Lottusse!!

Notice the rougher brush strokes?  That's because the real shoe is of naturally tanned leather, and was individual crafted to have this particular look!

www.lottusse.com

PechaKucha - from daydreams to ink and pixels

Ever wondered how I create my work or what my creative process is--or if I even have one?

It's rather embarrassing posting about this, since I can't stand my own voice (have yet to watch this personally)! But, I hope you'll find my PechaKucha presentation interesting! And after watching this, I look forward to you stopping by my show next month, to see my creations in person. Nothing beats the originals!

www.pechakucha.org/cities/tokyo/presentations/from-daydreams-to-ink-and-pixels or click on the image above to bring you to the site.

P.S. Special thanks to the people who came to watch this live last month, and the ones who previewed this before me posting it. Was told that I did not too bad! Hahaha......

A Sneak Preview: Lady Dior - Pink Alstroemeria Flower

Why did I name my upcoming show "otona kyutto," cute grown up?  It's because there is such a thing as elegant or sophisticated cute.  The SS2014 Lady Dior -  pink alstroemeria flower handbag is one of such example.  So, here's a sneak preview of what is going to be on display next month.  And contrary to what I am usually known for painting--characters and simplified representations, this illustration is more realistic.  Now, you do have to say, it is still cute, no?

A side note:  The handbag Lala is holding in the poster for otona kyutto is also for the same collection, Lady Dior

jodisam.com/otona-kyutto

otona kyutto

As previously mentioned, I am honoured to be holding my second 2014 show at plate tokyo. otona kyutto will run for the entire month of September.

Mon Sep 1 - Tue Sep 30 2014
plate tokyo
1f 1-11-6 Nishiazabu, Minato, Tokyo
Everyday from 12 PM to 12 AM (last order)

Opening Party Sat Sep 6 from 2 PM to 6 PM
With the very special DJs Kei Shiratori & Yutaka Kitamura

"Otona Kyutto" means "grownup cute" in English, but for me it is more like "cute grownup".  In keeping with the name, the paintings on show this time is a little more sophisticated, focusing on my vintage and fashion inspired works.  Vintage cars and phones, classic accessories, along with pieces featured in the Bulletin Magazine's, "tokyo trend" will be on display.  Maybe even some wine?! Someone did say the spelling should have been "kyuuto", which is correct. But I went for the "tt" instead. Hahaha......

plate tokyo is a modern french restaurant that offers fantastic food, and just as my philosophy towards a fulfilling life "great food, great wine, and great company," it is the place to be!  Please see the link below for my full report of the place, as well as their official (did I mentioned beautiful too?) website:

jodisam.com/blog/2014/07/05/platetokyo-js-exhibition
arigatoinc.com/plate

I can't wait to see everyone one there!

*Since the format is a little different from my last show, I will not be at venue most of the time.  Please do contact me in advance, and I will try to meet as many of you there as possible*

Here is the address in Japanese:

plate tokyo
ホテル & レジデンス六本木
東京都港区西麻布1-11-6 1f

plate tokyo and Fall 2014 Exhibition

With deadlines looming and lots on my "plate" these days, what could be better than visiting one of the best causal, but exceptional French restaurants in Tokyo for a late lunch meeting?

plate tokyo, located in the chic Nishi-Azabu area, is wonderful with an amazing menu from single dishes to course menus ranging anywhere from 1000 yen to 8000+ yen.  Their special priced lunches are not only available during weekdays, but on weekends as well--a rarity here in Japan.

The ingredients are fresh, the cooking is superb, and the atmosphere is relaxing.  I am a lover of great food, but not stuffy and uptight surroundings.  The cheese board and wine selections are to die for!  What is even more impressive, is their personable service, and love of great music and arts.  They even produced their own CDs, and have artists showing their works on a monthly basis.

The owner, Ayano-san, is as attentive as she is cute.  Feel free to drop by plate tokyo anytime, for some great food, or even just a glass of wine, though you really should try a couple of their amazing dishes!

Thank you everyone at plate tokyo for making my stressful life, more relaxed and delicious. Can't wait until my next visit there!

arigatoinc.com/plate
+81(0)8046899059

* A special advance notice: Am honoured to be holding my new exhibition at plate tokyo from Sep 1 to 30 2014

Nero-chan on Neptune Design Web Store

Am happy to announce that nero-chan postcards are now available on Neptune Design's web store!  Though the website mainly features cycling-related goods, it does have a kuroneko, black cat, category.  And since nero-chan is a black kitty, he somehow found his way there!

Please do check him and all the other hi-performance cycling items out:

www.nep-d-shop.com/?pid=76197682

JS x Tokyu Hands Gallery Market Shibuya Apr 27 - May 24

Tokyu Hands is one of my favourite stores in Japan.  They have everything you need and do not.  Am very happy to share with you from Sun Apr 27 to Sat May 24, my postcards will be on sale at their Hands Gallery Market on the 7th Floor of their Flagship Shibuya Store!!

I will be a part of a number of crafty talents showing and selling their works.  It's really the perfect place to discover various creative minds while enjoying a cup of coffee, because this Shibuya store in particular as Hands Cafe--there are only 2 of such cafes in Japan, in Shibuya or Uemeda in Osaka.

On show are my "the stars" series postcards, as well has some of my other designs.  Please do visit it during this time!

http://www.tokyu-hands.co.jp/handscafe/shibuya/index.html

Thank you! Day 4 & 5

Well, a great big thank you to everyone!! I couldn't have pulled off the stars & my favourite things show without all love and your support.  To have been able to see so many friends, make new ones, and share in person what I have been doing since relocating to Tokyo is a true honour.

Of course, the same has to been said about the wonderful staff at Le Chalet and Levain.  They really had to squeeze us into their cozy little cafe while still running the place packed with their own customers.

And just had to share the pics of the cookie that was as big a baumkuchen, and of the giant loafs campagne from Levain--am turning into a pig surrounded by beautiful flowers!!

Day 3: Good Food, Good Art, and Good Company!

Day 3 of the stars & my favourite things was as much as food for the creative mind, as for the heart and stomach!  Thank you for the beautiful little gifts and everyone who came out to support me.  Fellow artists and supportive friends came to enjoy lunch and teas, and lots of great conversations.  And the same went for the new people I met.

Le Chalet is usually very busy on the weekends.  That's why am sure this one is going to be even more so!!

Above is just a small sample of what is served at the cafe.  The first is my favourite, goma-miso sando (sesame-miso sandwich), veggie & cheese toast (apologies for me taking a bite before taking the photo), and french toast made with real French bread!

True happiness indeed!!

Day 2: Nico

Day 2: How can you not fall in love with him?  Nico and his owner came to the cafe for an early dinner, and I just had to take a picture of him!