Hiroshi Hayakawa Beautiful Bizarre Artist Directory member provides some fascinating insights into his practice and experience as figurative illustrator, as he responds to the questions below:
- How do you approach the challenge of staying motivated and inspired in your art practice, and what strategies do you use to keep your creativity flowing?
- Can you talk about the role of storytelling and narrative in your work?
- What do you consider to be the most rewarding aspects of your work?
- What advice do you have for aspiring artists who are just starting out?
How do you approach the challenge of staying motivated and inspired in your art practice, and what strategies do you use to keep your creativity flowing?
I try to experience new things when I need inspiration. Working with new models, taking a workshop to learn a new skill, joining a new local artist group, etc. All those things give me a chance to discover things I did not know before and to gain a new perspective not only in my art practice but also in my life.
Can you talk about the role of storytelling and narrative in your work?
Creating a sense of narrative in my work is as equally important as achieving technical efficiency for me. Without a story to tell, an artwork may be merely a technical exercise without much substance. Many of my stories are told in a symbolic language and sometimes they can be very nuanced and subtle. But I noticed that, when a story is expressed in such a way, it engages the viewer into a deeper dialogue with the piece.
What do you consider to be the most rewarding aspects of your work?
Witnessing my art resonate with my viewer on a deeper level both intellectually and emotionally. One time someone told me that she cried when she saw my art in the gallery. I think that is the highest compliment an artist can receive.
What advice do you have for aspiring artists who are just starting out?
Don’t measure your success by comparing yourself with other artists. You are on your own unique journey, and it doesn’t have to resemble anything else.
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