Yosuke Nakano is a Japanese contemporary artist who will display his paintings for the first time in a solo exhibition at Midnice Gallery in Bangkok. In this interview he talks about art, the major influences in his work, and his plans for the future.
Art has always been a part of your life. When did you know you would become an artist?
I have always loved to create art, but I have never imagined that I could make a living as an artist because I thought it was difficult and only for talented people. This was until I read a book called Today’s Art by Taro Okamoto, who is avant-garde artist in Japan. In this book, he mentions that art was not only for geniuses or artists, but for all human beings. Art is joy of life and the artwork is the expression of the joy of life.
As a contemporary artist, who influenced you the most?
Taro Okamoto and Pablo Picasso
How has your style evolved over time?
There are basically three steps of evolving: imitation, breaking, and separation. This comes from martial arts theory: 1) Follow teacher exactly. 2) Break the teaching. 3) Get away from the teaching.
In my case, the first step was to start by imitating Taro Okamoto’s art. I imitated every aspect of his work, including his philosophy, ideas, words, style, etc.
The second step was to try to break his style, which was same as finding my own style, and mix his influences with my style. I also tried to go against his style, which was equal to establish my own style.
The third step was to get away from Taro influence completely. This meant I had to do my best to develop my own style.
In today’s digital world, how does a painter “survive”?
The digital world is just one of the tools used to express an artist’s message. The most important thing as an artist is to stay in motion with our heart and to create something that people want and need.
What is the concept of your future exhibition “Love is Art”?
Simply put, our expression of love will be an art expression. Love is everything. Our love can make world peace. In this show I express my love for nature, human beings, mystery, and visitors. I hope all the visitors can feel that art is for everyone and that art can be like medicine which gives life.
When did you make these paintings?
Almost all of the paintings in “Love is Art” were made this year. I have so many paintings in my house… but I decided to choose only new paintings for this exhibition because I wanted to challenge myself. I wanted to know how people feel about my newest art.
Will this be your first time to Bangkok? What are your expectations?
Yes. This is not only my first trip to Bangkok but also my first solo exhibition. I believe that this is the beginning of a new personal art revolution. I expect many people to come and visit the exhibition and feel happy about my paintings. My work revolves around the idea of making people feel happy. I also expect to be able to connect with friends and plan my next project.
What are you working on right now?
I am currently preparing for an art competition in Japan, which is a face-off against ‘The tower of sun’ – a big sculpture made by Taro Okamoto. It is my most favorite art work in the world! Also, I am working on a book about art.
Are there any plans for future shows?
There is no future plan for future shows, but I am always ready for them.
Thank you for your time and see you at the opening.
Watch Yosuke Nakano talk about his art philosophy:
The opening reception of “Love is Art” was be held at Midnice Gallery in Bangkok on September 26, 2015. The exhibition was open until 26 October 2015. Connect with the artist on Facebook or check out his website.
