Sanae Sugimoto

Image: Promise Plate, Sanae Sugimoto.

In Issue 95: Heritage, Japanese artist Sanae Sugimoto illustrated a story for us, Clean Clothes No 2 Compostable wool. Here we ask her a few questions about her work. Sugimoto was born in Tottori, Japan in 1975 and grew up surrounded by the sea and mountains. After studying oil painting at art college, she returned to her hometown and started to work as an artist. Sugimoto’s recent works are drawn on paper using only black and red inks (sumi) which were originally made for calligraphy. She now lives in Fukuoka and works as an artist and illustrator, taking commissions for artwork. A collection of Sugimoto's drawings were published as Close Your Ears in 2018.

Image: Magic Skirt, Sanae Sugimoto.

What is the inspiration behind your work?

Since I was a child, I read many books and liked playing alone. Then I sort of created my own world inside of me. I guess I go back there only when I'm drawing. The Motifs have been the same since I was a teenager.

Why do you limit your colour palette to black and red?

I tend to be indecisive when I draw, so limiting the colour and the method could solve this matter. I use Japanese ink called Sumi, this ink is quite thick compared to normal inks so it produces unique lines. Also, Sumi has black and red inks only. 

What are you working on at the moment?

My second book, and a first picture book.

Image: Waiting for Something, Sanae Sugimoto.

Where can people buy your work?

At an online shop called Two Persimmons and at my solo exhibitions as well. I'm planning to open my online shop by myself for domestic and for foreign buyers. I can't find enough time to do it though.

For more information visit www.sanaesugimoto.com