blackbird (2024) Painting by Ayumi

"Expressing Nature's Soul Through the Power of InkMy name is Ayumi, a sumie (Japanese black ink painting) artist.

 I grew up in the lush, nature-rich environment of Hyogo Prefecture in Japan,where my grandfather, who taught sumie, introduced me to the world of art. As a child, I spent my days sketching, always surrounded by the scent of ink and the presence of creativity. 

 In university, my passion for art led me to study graphic design, aspiring to work in a creative field. After graduation, I took a position at city hall, yet I continued to create art, waiting for the right opportunity to pursue my dream full-time. That opportunity arrived finally!  

I received a request for a illustration book and published it. 

 Based on the true story of a daikon radish that grew through asphalt, this tale conveyed the importance of life and the power of nature. The book garnered significant attention and was even included in elementary school textbooks.
 

Following this success, I decided to pursue art independently. Initially, I worked with colored pencils and graphic design. However, after my grandfather passed away, I revisited his legacy, using the brushes, ink, and washi paper (Japanese paper)he left behind.

 This experience reignited my love for sumie, and I realized that this was my true path in life. I then trained under the modern sumie contemporary ink painting artist master, Shukou Tsuchiya.

 My art draws from the rich, seasonal landscapes of Japan, blending traditional styles with inspirations from music, encounters, and lessons from my journey. Through expressing these deep, internal images, I create unique works of art. With the power of sumi black ink, I aim to share this passion with the world

• Nationality: JAPAN
• Date of birth : unknown date
• Artistic domains:
• Groups: Contemporary Japanese Artists