While living in Japan, it was in 1998 that I met a notable Nihonga artist who took me under her wing and taught me the secrets of this ancient and beautiful style of painting that dates back over a thousand years. I instantly fell in love with the brilliant colors, unique texture and vibrant natural shimmer found in the crushed mineral pigments. Becoming an assistant and apprentice of Atsuko Miwa, I subsequently became influenced by her lifelong teacher, a nationally renowned master Nihonga painter, Takayama Tatsuo (1931-2007). I also deeply admire and aspire to the work of Kaii Higashiyama, who is known for his soft landscapes. I share his deep reverence for nature and aspire to also capture this appreciation through painting (as well as photography). Additionally, I've been inspired by Ikuo Hirayama who is known for his evocative works of Tibet and the Silk Road. My mentor, Atsuko Miwa, continues to show her work and has participated as a judge at the annual Nitten - The Japanese Fine Arts Exhibition, held at the National Arts Centre, Tokyo (see picture above). She is known for her vibrant portraits and pioneering technical style. While still practicing with various mediums, I have found the inherent beauty Japanese colors render unsurpassed. Consequently, Nihonga remains my preferred choice and true means of passion. The pigments are derived from crushed minerals, semi-precious stones, shells, corals and other sources from nature. Gold and silver are also often used either in powder form, or thin leaf or flakes. Minerals are heated and ground to change the tone of their natural color. Colors are identified by particle size: the finer the powder, the lighter the color. The beauty of Nihonga lies in it's rich color, ethereal hues and unique texture. The intricate layering process, the brilliance or natural shimmer of pigments (of which can be seen when light is focused on the painting) and the special texture created as a result of the very fine sand-grain pigments are all characteristic of Nihonga. If you would like to find out more about traditional Japanese painting or are interested in commissioning a painting, please contact me directly.