Mie Akatsu
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Mie Akatsu is a native of Japan. She is an artist who creates oil paintings and drawings using oil pastels.
With a BFA from Miami University (OH, USA) and an MFA from Joshibi University (Kanagawa, Japan), she completed her formal art education.
For a year spanning 2009 to 2010, British Columbia, Canada was her home.
Currently, she has returned to Japan, where she grew up, and is painting.
Her artwork is rooted in her perspective as a woman, blending her North American experiences with her current daily life in East Asia.
https://mieakatsu.jimdofree.com/
What inspired you to become an artist, and how did you decide to commit to this path?
When I studied abroad at an American high school, the host family I stayed with was very artistic, so I was greatly influenced by them. At university, I initially intended to major in something else, but my passion for art remained undiminished, so I ultimately decided to pursue a degree in fine arts.
Could you share the story or concept behind your recent work?
I paint scenes of the end of the day. In these paintings, I overlay the lives of various women.
What was the most challenging part of your path so far? How are you navigating this obstacle?
Continuing to paint without quitting was the most difficult thing. I overcame challenges by entering my studio, even for a short while, and working on something, no matter how small.
What role does experimentation and exploration play in your artistic practice?
Experimentation and exploration play a crucial role in my artistic practice. By taking an experimental approach, I can push beyond my comfort zone and discover new possibilities. While failures are common, I learn a great deal from them, and I believe this leads to artistic growth in the long term. Additionally, by exploring different ways of thinking and concepts I've never seen or heard before, I can broaden my artistic perspective and bring depth and diversity to my work.
Do you have any start or stop rituals before creating?
I find it challenging to transition directly from household tasks and miscellaneous duties to painting, so I've started taking short power naps to help me refocus.
What message do you hope your art conveys to the world?
I want to deliver paintings that can accompany people when they return to their honest selves, rather than the selves that society demands of them.
Share a mantra or favorite quote that keeps you going.
God is in the details.
