The images captured in her art are from the imaginary “Poe Poe island” of the Hawaiian Islands and Polynesian culture. Hawaiian Hula dance evokes events of nature. Such as the swaying of a tree in the breeze and the movement of a wave in the ocean, as well as feeling of human emotion such as fondness or yearning. She wished to draw them and add humor as a result she created Poe Poe Island. It is the inspiration and foundation of her art. Her art takes the form of a travel journal about the scenic beauty of Poe Poe island and the Poe poe’s relaxed lifestyle.

   To my fellow art friends,

I grew up in Shirakawa City in Fukushima Japan. My hometown has beautiful nature and rice fields during harvest. My grandfather was a wood block print artist. While my parents were working in their restaurant I was spending time with my grandfather in his art studio when I was a little. I remember the iron stairs to the basement art studio were cold to my bare feet and the smell of mold and ink.

My grandfather always said my mom, “Don’t say no to her, her artistry is great.” when I painted pictures on the walls in our home. So I had to believe my artwork was great.

I graduated with a degree in Oil Painting from Musashino Art University in Tokyo Japan to honor my grandfather wishes. I next studied Graphic Design from Kuwasawa School of Design. Upon graduation I worked as a display designer at a large department store in Tokyo. At this time I took a first trip to Hawaii with my grandmother. Then I became very interested in Hawaiian culture. I experienced a home stay at a Hula teacher’s house in Maui.

After moving to the united stats, I got into action as illustrator and artist in California. My illustrations appeared in magazines. And I showed my arts at the gallery exhibits.

Now I enjoy putting my art on various gifts that people might enjoy. This job is the greatest! I can use all of my experience of art work.

I work in the morning while my son is at school. I work at my small art studio next the kitchen, listening to Hawaiian music, sometime boiling red beans. My cat ( Sally ) and dog (Molly) are sleeping nearby. I really love this time. After my son comes home we share my working table. He does his homework and I do my art work. I am lucky to spend time with my son at home during working.

My art is a reflection of my history, humor and love. My hope is to pass a long them to my son as my grandfather did for me.

I am working make my family happy here. My art work creates an atmosphere of industry and happiness at home. Imagining that my art will give enjoyment to somebody somewhere in the wold gives me a feeling of excitement!

I hope my tropical and humorous arts are brightening the world and your life.

From my small art studio next to the kitchen,
Mina

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