Mariko Ono - Creating joy

Mariko Ono is a visual artist in Hiroshima, Japan. I met up with her in June at her home in the Honkawa district and asked her some questions about her career.

What was the first piece of artwork you made?

A line drawing in kindergarten

When did you decide to become an artist?

I saw Salvador Dalí on TV one day and I wanted to be like him. I was looking for a way not to work in an office.I saw Dalí talking on TV and I thought, "That's the job for me!" I was 13 or 14 years old at the time.

How does the public influence your artwork?

I don't want to make my artwork difficult. I don't want to make it for artists. I just want it to be clear and easy for people to understand. I want them to feel joy when they see my work.

What are your favorite media?

Oil, because it's expressive. And watercolor, because it's sensitive.

Who's an artist you particularly admire?

The American artist Wayne Thiebaud

What project are you working on at the moment?

I'm painting human figures again.

Where can people see your work?

Artkapsel