“Garden of a youth hostel – Katsunuma” (2024). Pencil and watercolor on paper mounted on panel
Wielding just pencils and watercolors, and an eye for the small things in life, artist Yukiko Suto traverses Japan, capturing the nostalgia and beauty of residential neighborhoods. Old homes, parking lots, roadside gardens, and weeds: these common elements of Japan are easily overlook. But for Suto, they are all evidence of some stranger’s labor and joy, and thus worth capturing, which she does in stunning detail.
“House – Blue Roof and Futons” (2016). Pencil and watercolor on paper mounted on panel
Born in 1978, Suto attended Tama Art University where she majored in graphic design. Since then, she has dedicated her craft to meticulously capturing the beauty of everyday life in Japan from old houses and gardens to elementary school swimming pools. Drawn largely from one-point-persepctive, Suto’s art is notably devoid of any actual humans. But there is clear evidence of their existence, dedication and joy, which is likely what led the artist to decided this moment was worth capturing.
Yukiko Suto is represented by Tomio Koyama Gallery in Japan. You can keep up with her work on Instagram.
“House – Blue Roof and Futons” (2016). Pencil and watercolor on paper mounted on panel
“House with Dogwoods Blooming” (2017). Pencil and watercolor on paper mounted on panel
“Roadside Garden – Onomichi (2011). Pencil and watercolor on paper mounted on panel
“Pale Blue House (2017). Pencil and watercolor on paper mounted on panel
“Spring Weeds (2012). Pencil and watercolor on paper mounted on panel
“Asagaya Housing” (2013). Pencil and watercolor on paper mounted on panel
