DPW Spotlight Interview: Sachi Yoshimoto

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings. To enter to win Sachi's painting "Two Apples" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Sachi's DPW Gallery Page:

Sachi Yoshimoto is a Tokyo based self-taught artist who works mainly in oil medium. She loves the warmth that the medium gives to her work. 

Artistically inclined from a young age, Sachi has worked diligently to bring her art to life. In 2013, after years of amateur work, Sachi decided to pursue her art wholeheartedly. 

Sachi’s style of work is “true-to-life,” focusing on the breath she finds in organic and inorganic objects. Her vision is to bring life into the objects she’s attracted to in everyday life. 

Apart from regular art commissions, Sachi often donates certain pieces and commission profits to animal charities she loves.

Like her art, Sachi continues to evolve and improve. Her ultimate aim is to have her artistic journey make everyone's life a little brighter. (click to read more)

What did you want to be growing up?

I’ve always loved drawing, but I really had no clue what I wanted to be…

When did your artistic journey begin?

It began when I was 5 years old. I used to go to a kid's art class at my best friend’s house where her mother was teaching. Since I was a quiet child, I really loved the peaceful atmosphere. Thanks to my mom who kept my paintings for decades! If you’re interested, you can see them on my website, in ‘about’ category.

Two Apples
(click to view)

Enter to win by clicking on the link at the top of the DPW home page announcing Sachi's interview.

Did you have long periods without creative expression? How did you get back on the horse?

Yes. My creative urge faded away after graduating from college since life got busy with full time office work.

One day in my early 40’s, I saw a pastel artist on TV and I felt like taking the class in order to get some fresh air. After joining the class, my passion for art slowly came back.

Which mediums and genres do you gravitate toward? Which ones don’t appeal?

I gravitate toward oils. The richness of the colors, how it looks, and how I can manage the texture, I love everything about oil paintings. Currently I enjoy painting still life and seascapes/landscapes. 

In the Sunlight
(click to view)

What was the process like of pinpointing your personal style or finding your voice?

I had no clue about my style or voice for years until I built quite a good amount of work, so just paint, paint and paint. Repetition is the key.

Technically, I paint most of my paintings with Alla Prima (wet on wet) to keep the fresh and spontaneous look. I find a painting knife very useful to express lights and energetic movements in nature. 

Name an artist (or artists), well-known or not, who you admire. Why?

I truly admire Issac Levitan (1860-1900) who was a classical Russian landscape painter. It’s hard to explain why I’m drawn to his paintings, I just need to get some tissues before looking at his masterpieces.

Beyond Space and Time
(click to view)

If you could offer one piece of advice to your younger, creative self — what would that be?

Do what you love, don’t compare yourself to others, if you need any advice, ask someone who’s already accomplished your goal, just keep going and have fun!

Do you utilize any habits or tricks for winning the distraction and procrastination battle?

Just get started. The rest will take care of itself. Setting a panel and planning what to paint for the next day helps.

Cheery Cherries
(click to view)

In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you push forward?

Play some good music and dance! Change the energy as quickly as possible. I can have a pity party once in a while, but don’t stay there so long. Just set a small (for me 5x7”) panel on my easel, and paint anyway. 

What are some of your long and short term goals for yourself or your art?

For both short and long term goals, I’d like to challenge new things, take lessons, and enter art shows in order to improve and evolve.

Reaching a bigger audience is another one, so that my future fans could find my paintings.

In addition to the above, if I could have my own art studio, it will be super fantastic!

Neutral
(click to view)

What does success mean to you personally?

Besides seeing red dots on my paintings :), if I could capture the beauty of nature on canvas and brighten up your day with my art, I would call it a success.

What is one of your proudest moments in your creative life?

This past summer, when I saw a lot of my paintings all at once on the floor, I was proud of myself and how far I’ve come. I’m so grateful for my gift and the circumstance that I get to do what I truly love.

And the moment when I got this DPW spotlight news. Thank you so much for your support and this wonderful opportunity DPW!

Together in Peace
(click to view)

Thanks, Sachi!

© 2021 Sophie Marine