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────────ABOUT ARTIST TV INTERVIEW────────
"Makoto Hirazawa"
Hello everyone! Welcome to ABOUT ARTIST TV!
ABOUT ARTIST TV is an art channel run by the art marketplace "FROM ARTIST."
As some of you may already know, FROM ARTIST publishes an original magazine called "ABOUT ARTIST" that introduces artists' roots and their thoughts on their work.
This art channel is a rare opportunity to invite artists to speak directly to us about the thoughts they put into their work. Please enjoy until the very end.
All of the works introduced here are one-of-a-kind pieces currently for sale at FROM ARTIST.
If you see any works that interest you, please check them out using the links.
Now, we would like to welcome today's guest, Makoto Hirazawa! Hirazawa-san, please take this opportunity to speak with us!
Artist:
Thank you very much! I was really looking forward to being able to show you my work in detail today!
──Self-introduction
FROM ARTIST Staff:
First, please give us a brief introduction about yourself!
Artist details page: https://from-artist.com/collections/hirasawa-makoto
Artist:
I've loved drawing since I was a child, so I went to an art university and after graduating I worked in advertising production at an information publishing company. I decided to take early retirement at the age of 42, and since then I've worked as a freelance director of web advertising production. However, with the onset of COVID-19 in 2020, my work has decreased dramatically. As I approach 65, I wanted to find a hobby that I could continue.
During that time, I happened to come across a guidebook by watercolor artist Nagayama Yuko in a bookstore while walking around, which left a strong impression on me, and I learned about the world of transparent watercolors, which became a major turning point for me. I learned some of the basics of art as a student, but I had hardly painted at all for the next 50 years, so I think it was a strange coincidence that I ended up painting. To date, I have had one solo exhibition, one group exhibition, and in public exhibitions other than FORM ARTIST, I have won the Excellence Award at the Nihon Bijutsu Ten Exhibition two years in a row.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Thank you for sharing your wonderful story! I was really drawn to the story of how you first encountered transparent watercolors after having been active in the creative world for so long! It's amazing that you've had solo exhibitions, group exhibitions, and even won awards at the Japan Art Museum Exhibition!
As Mr. Hirazawa mentioned earlier, he is actually the artist who won the prestigious Grand Prize in the contest held by FROM ARTIST's open call exhibition "The 2nd Japan's 47 Prefectures Tour! Japan's Nationwide Art Journey in Saitama," where the Grand Prize was decided by visitors' votes! Thank you for your support!
Artist:
I participated in the first Japan Art Journey in Tsukuba, and was honored to win a prize, so I really wanted to try again at the second one in Saitama. I was really surprised to receive the Grand Prix. I have nothing but words of gratitude for all the visitors who voted for me. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you so much!
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Thank you so much for participating and for your wonderful comments!
Japan Art Journey in Saitama [Grand Prize Winner] Makoto Hirazawa Interview here
──Introduction to the work
"Sunny Downtown Tokyo"
Work details page: https://from-artist.com/products/kaiseinotokyoshitamachi
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Now, let me introduce the first piece. The first piece I'd like to introduce is "Tokyo Downtown on a Sunny Day"!
What thoughts and themes are contained in this work?
Artist:
This painting is based on a scene I found on a road I often travel on a clear, sunny day. I printed out a smartphone image of a woman on a bicycle and a man holding a baby having a conversation on the road, and used that as reference when creating the piece!
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Thank you for sharing this wonderful story! The work has such a powerful impact that it draws you in from the very first moment! The tranquil atmosphere of the town is beautifully depicted, warming the hearts of those who see it.
Artist:
It makes me happy to hear you say that. I wanted to create a work that conveys the lively atmosphere of downtown Tokyo and the breathing of its people.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
So, are there any points you would like us to pay attention to?
Artist:
I think the person I want you to pay attention to is the person in the center. I feel like it leaves room for the viewer to use their imagination and wonder what the two are talking about!
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Works that allow each viewer to imagine their own story are truly fascinating!
Is it the soft morning light or the gentle sunlight of twilight? The shadows of buildings and people are long, giving a sense of the passage of time. The pinkish color of the road also reflects the light and takes on a warmth. How did you consciously express the warm atmosphere that permeates the entire work?
Artist:
I think the view was taken around 9:30 in the morning. The strong sunlight gave the scene a nice contrast.
I tried to draw it using lighter tones, while keeping in mind the impression created by the morning sunlight!
FROM ARTIST Staff:
What a great approach! By using the energy of the downtown area and the morning sunlight as the theme, the work is imbued with a sense of life. Painting in bright tones seems to energize the viewer as well.
The sense of perspective is beautifully expressed, but could you tell us anything you focused on or struggled with during the creation process? Above all, the momentum and dynamism of the brush are what make this work so appealing. There is no hesitation in each stroke, and you can sense the energy as if you have captured "this moment."
What is your favorite part and what was the final touch you added?
Artist:
In fact, I often draw without making a rough sketch, and I layer the colors quite roughly, especially in the background. Instead, I tried to draw the central figure, which I thought would be the focal point, properly.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
I think it's extremely difficult to paint by instinct without relying on a rough sketch. But even so, you carefully finish off the parts you want to show clearly... that balance is what gives your work its persuasive power.
What kind of room would you recommend displaying this piece in?
Artist:
I think it would match a simple room better. I hope it brightens up the room. As it is the first prize-winning work, I would be delighted if you would treasure it and display it.
"A retro coffee shop in downtown"
Work details page: https://from-artist.com/products/shitamachinoretoronajyunkissa
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Now let's introduce the second piece! This piece is "Retro Cafe in Downtown Tokyo"!
So, what thoughts and themes are contained in this work?
Artist:
This work depicts a coffee shop I came across while strolling along the post town street of Kitasenju with my family. The shop has been renovated with a retro Showa-era atmosphere, but I was simply intrigued by it as a motif for a painting.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
This piece also has an atmosphere that makes you feel like you can hear the sounds of the city! The soft, gentle colors make use of the transparency of watercolors, making it seem like a scene from a memory. Looking at it makes you feel like time is passing slowly.
Artist:
That's right. The store's Showa-era design has been recreated beautifully, and I tried my best to capture this nostalgic and interesting feeling in my watercolor paintings.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
The retro chairs, clocks, and other details are carefully drawn, and the artist's sensitivity in capturing a moment of everyday life is amazing.
How long did it take you to draw the piece?
Artist:
I think it took about three days. The deep impression made it difficult to adjust the color. I also spent more time and effort than usual on the small details, such as the large wall clock, the soft serve ice cream shaped object, and the retro chair.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
It took three days to complete this so carefully... I imagine that color adjustment is a very delicate task, and it's clear that a lot of attention was paid to the smallest details.
Are there any points you would like us to pay attention to?
Artist:
The point I want you to pay attention to is the scene where a young couple is sitting and talking at a table in front of the store. I wanted to make their white clothes stand out against the shadows of the exterior.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
The white clothing stood out in the shadows, and my eyes were drawn to it in an instant, as if to tell a story.
The transparency and soft texture of the woman's white dress is particularly striking. Even though she is seen from behind, the depiction makes you wonder what she is thinking. Were there any music, smells, or other things that came to mind while you were drawing that stayed with your senses?
Artist:
Yes, it's a purely Japanese style painting, but something like Let It Be by the Beatles, which was popular 50 years ago, might suit it.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
That's a stylish combination! Japanese-style scenery and The Beatles are an unexpected match, but they seem to go together really well. If they were playing in the background, I could just stare at them forever.
Artist:
I think that people of my generation will find this scene nostalgic. As this is the second Grand Prix winning entry, I hope that it will be treasured.
"Cherry Blossoms along Meguro River"
Work details page: https://from-artist.com/products/megurogawanosakura
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Now let's introduce the third piece! This is "Cherry Blossoms of Meguro River"!
So, what thoughts and themes are contained in this work?
Artist:
The cherry blossoms along Meguro River are known as one of Tokyo's famous spots. I knew that there would be a huge crowd when they were in full bloom in April, so I went to a spot I had my eye on early in the morning to take some photos.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
The cherry blossoms in full bloom fill the entire screen, creating a truly spectacular sight. However, it is not too flashy, and there is a certain tranquility to it, drawing you in with the sensation that time has stopped.
Artist:
Actually, I have tried to paint cherry blossoms several times, but I have never been satisfied with them. When I try to paint them, I feel that they are a difficult motif. This work not only features cherry blossoms, but also combines them with the sky and river, so I thought it would be an interesting painting.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Cherry blossoms are truly profound. The cherry blossoms reflected in the river, the silhouettes of the buildings, and the light in the sky. The unique bleeding effect of watercolors expresses the natural ripples of the water, as if a breeze is blowing across its surface. It's truly "watercolors that paint water"! Please tell us if you have any preferences for the type of paper or brushes you use.
Artist:
The paper is WATERFORD 300g/m² medium. I use large and small flat and round brushes to paint.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
The medium Waterford brush strokes have an exquisite color and smudge, making them perfect for the artwork. The brush strokes are carefully selected, and the balance between delicate and bold feels very comfortable.
Are there any points you would like us to pay attention to?
Artist:
One thing I want you to pay attention to here is the volume of the cherry blossoms. I also used masking ink to express the pale parts of the cherry blossoms and the water surface.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
I see, so you used masking ink! The soft feel of the cherry blossoms is very realistic, and when you look at them up close, you can see a whole different kind of charm!
The composition has a river at the center, with a row of cherry blossom trees lined up in a nearly symmetrical pattern. The way the perspective is drawn is stunning, and your eye is naturally drawn deeper and deeper into the landscape. It's as if you're being invited into the landscape.
Artist:
The key to this painting is not only the rows of cherry blossom trees lining both banks, but also the sky, dynamic clouds, and the river surface on which the sky is reflected.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Are there any changes you made along the way, or any differences from your initial image?
Artist:
I liked the composition, so I painted it fairly faithfully. After considering the overall balance, I adjusted the shadow areas of the river surface to be slightly brighter than they actually were.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
What part was the most fun to draw?
Artist:
It was a lot of fun drawing the interestingly shaped clouds in the sky and their reflection on the river surface.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
If there was a sound in this picture, what do you think you would hear?
Artist:
That's a difficult question. I think it might be the sound of the first spring wind that can be heard by listening carefully in the silence.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Thank you! So what kind of room would you recommend displaying this piece in?
Artist:
It's a typical spring scene in Japan, so I'm sure it will match any room.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Thank you! The warm atmosphere of spring fits perfectly into any room. Bringing spring elements into your room will give it a brighter, fresher impression and allow you to enjoy the feeling of the season.
"Tokyo Downtown Evening Scene"
Work details page: https://from-artist.com/products/tokyoshitamachiyuukei
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Now let's introduce the fourth piece! This is "Tokyo Downtown Evening View"!
So, what thoughts and themes are contained in this work?
Artist:
This work depicts the twilight of a winter afternoon when the sun sets early and the road is bathed in a golden hue. This is a view close to my house, but it's a beautiful sight that I only get to see two or three times a year, so I was so engrossed in capturing it that I pressed the shutter on my smartphone.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
The moment you see it, a sense of nostalgia and tranquility seeps into your heart. The scene is so faint yet so vivid that it's almost hard to put into words. The glare of the sun is depicted quietly in pale yellow and orange, so realistic it almost makes you squint your eyes. How do you express the "sense of warmth" that cannot be expressed in a photograph?
Artist:
A sense of warmth? That's a good expression. Yes, it is. This gently warm scene at dusk will surely evoke nostalgia in your memories.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Are there any points you would like us to pay attention to?
Artist:
I would like everyone to pay attention to the car. I think the painting comes together because of the presence of this object in this landscape.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
It's very interesting how the relative positions of the landscape and the objects create the balance of the entire painting. Paying attention to these small details makes the work seem even more profound!
The cars and buildings are ordinary scenery, but it looks like a scene from a movie. It's amazing how familiar scenery can look so beautiful. When creating shadows, how do you control the amount of water and the degree of drying?
Artist:
Without making a rough sketch, I soaked a large flat brush in plenty of water over the entire image, then roughly painted the sky and road several times with a large round brush, and after letting it dry, I finally added the details with a fine brush.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Although the number of colors is modest, the warmth and sadness are conveyed very well. At what point did you feel that the final "stroke" was the end?
Artist:
When I looked at it the day after I finished, I felt that the colors were too muted, so I added some more water and added yellow and orange here and there. That may have been the final stroke.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
It's like a photograph, but not a photograph. How do you express the "sense of temperature" that cannot be expressed in a photograph?
Artist:
The great thing about watercolor paintings is that no matter how realistic you try to paint them, they will never be exactly like a photograph. However, I believe that this is what makes them unique pieces that reflect the artist's individuality and stimulate the viewer's sensibilities.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
So what kind of room would you recommend displaying this piece in?
Artist:
I think it would fit in both the living room and the bedroom. I think it's a piece that you can display for a long time without getting bored.
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Thank you! It's perfect for a living room or bedroom. A piece of art that allows you to discover new things over time can be enjoyed for a long time in your daily life. Having such a piece in your home makes you feel calmer and creates a more comfortable space!
──Finally
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Today we introduced many wonderful works by Makoto Hirazawa!
Have you found any works you like?
Finally, I would like to ask Makoto Hirazawa about his future activities and give a message to everyone watching today.
Artist:
I was very happy to be able to talk to you all directly today! If there are any works that interest you, please check them out as soon as possible! All of the works introduced today are one-of-a-kind, so it's first come, first served!
FROM ARTIST Staff:
Thank you! Hirasawa Makoto, who we introduced this time, has other fascinating works featured in FROM ARTIST. Please be sure to check them out as well!
Well, see you next time! Thank you!