Interview with Hyoji (English ver.)

Q. Welcome to U1 Gallery. We deeply appreciate your willingness to join us for this interview. Could you kindly introduce yourself and your work? Additionally, what initially inspired you to pursue a career in art?

A. Thank you for having me. My name is Hyoji, and I am an illustrator and painter specializing in abstract art. After completing my studies at art college and graduate school, I dedicated time to exploring and refining my artistic practice. The COVID-19 pandemic provided me with a period of deep reflection on my creative journey, solidifying my determination to fully commit to becoming a professional artist.

Q. Could you describe an artwork or series from your oeuvre that you consider pivotal in your career?

A. I hold a deep attachment to each of my works, as all of them carry significant meaning for me. However, the pieces that have played a particularly pivotal role in my artistic journey are "Side-Face" and "Our World." Both were showcased in public competitions and were instrumental in shaping and solidifying my painting style.

Q. Could you elaborate on your creative process and the methods you use to express your work?

A. My creative process begins with observing the canvas or support, where I intuitively place lines and colors based on my emotions and senses at that moment. When it comes to selecting colors, I deeply trust my instinctive reaction of "This is it!" I believe that individuality and uniqueness are essential, regardless of the size of the work. Above all, I strive to create art that evokes a sense of joy and healing, offering viewers a sense of courage and hope.

Q. Where do you draw inspiration for your work?

A. I had never really thought about it, but when I think about it, I realise that I often get images from shapes and forms. Other than that, images come to me from reading letters and texts such as words and poems, or from words and customs that used to be used in the past.

Q. What do you hope the audience takes away from your art?

A. I hope you will be able to feel the world I express in my works, which often reflect realistic aspects of contemporary social trends and people's lives, as well as my own experiences and memories.

Q. What is your dream project? Could you share your future plans and aspirations as an artist?

A. I aspire to create and share many more of my works in the years to come! While my current activities are primarily based in Japan, I am eager to expand internationally by exhibiting and hosting solo shows overseas. Additionally, I hope to explore new dimensions in my art by creating large-scale murals, three-dimensional works, and immersive installations.

Q. Is there anything you would like to share with readers about yourself and your art?

A. We live in a time of significant change, constantly encountering various events and challenges. Through my art, I hope to offer courage and hope to those who view it. It has been an honor to collaborate with U1 Gallery and participate in this extraordinary opportunity. I am deeply grateful to everyone who came to see my solo exhibition. Thank you for your support, and I look forward to sharing even more of my work with you in the future!

Contact
Artist : Hyoji
Instagram : @artwork.hj