Masaru Suyama — Contemporary Art Curator Magazine

Biography

Masaru Suyama is a self-taught painter based in Japan. He initially had his sights set on cartooning, applying to numerous cartooning prizes and was selected as a GARO prize finalist by the prestigious GARO cartooning magazine. Cartooning was his first experience in art making. He is now a skilled mixed media painter. Masaru has exhibited in Tokyo, London and New York.

What first prompted you to think of becoming an artist?

When I was about 20 years old, I happened to find an old textbook of art and there were Gogh's works in it. I was impressed so much and realized what art is. After that, I gradually came to be interested in becoming an artist.

What kind of an artist do you ultimately see yourself?

I loved cartoons very much when I was a child, so I tried to be a cartoonist at first. That experience still influences me and my art is based on catooning.

What are you hoping to communicate to the viewer through your work?

I think humor is important element in my work so I'm happy if people laugh at my work when they stand in front of it.

Can you explain the process of creating your work?

At first, some image suddenly comes into my mind. It is a sight I have not seen ever, I draw it on the canvas, then decide the colors. I don't like to use the same colors as previous works. After that, I just struggle until the work looks fine. The title comes last.

What is your favourite part of the creative process?

I enjoy and struggle all of the process.

Can you give us an insight into current projects and inspiration, or what we can look forward to from you in the near future?

Lisp gallery in Australia is promoting my works now. I will join in the shows they curate at art fairs.

And in Japan, I'm preparing for the solo show in Tokyo after COVID-19.

Instagram @suyama_masaru