How did you get started doing what you do?
I actually started a career in fashion. It’s only after years working in this field that I felt the urge to get back to what I love most, art.
How would you describe your creative style?
Supernaturalistic.
What’s your inspiration?
Inspiration, truly is everywhere. I find inspiration in the everyday. I’m also very inspired by risk, sometimes by starting something I have no idea how to finish and where it’s going to take me.
What is art to you?
Art is a form of creation that gives an emotional reaction, it is a way to reveal our most secret self.
How long does it typically take for you to finish a piece?
It depends, if I work 10 hours a day, I usually need a minimum of 2 weeks, but sometimes it can take up to 3 months.
How do you keep motivated?
Dissatisfaction. I am rarely, if ever, pleased with my work. This is actually a great source of motivation. I see incompleteness as a potential for development and progress. The permanent desire to reach a certain level of perfection helps improvement, it also leads to new horizons.
How would you say your surroundings have influenced your work?
I was born in the South part of Japan, Kumamoto, a place in the deep core of Shinto in all its many forms. An environment blessed with nature in all its plenitude. I studied in a Protestant school where we would start the lesson reading the bible. I grew up in a melting pot of cultures, have lived on different continents, every life experience influences my work.
How have others reacted to your work?
I was once contacted by a lady regarding one of my latest work “Andromeda”, she told me that she recently lost her sister and this very special work “spiritually” represented her. I felt very touched hearing her personal story.
What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
None really. Advice is easier said than done. Advice can tell you exactly what to do but you still have to do it.
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JUNG KATZ 