Meet Our Expert Instructors
At Sakura Arts Academy, we are proud to have a team of passionate and experienced instructors dedicated to helping you unlock your artistic potential. Learn more about their backgrounds, teaching styles, and the courses they offer.
Aiko Tanaka
Shodo (Japanese Calligraphy)
Sensei Tanaka is a highly respected calligrapher with over 20 years of teaching experience. Her approach emphasizes the meditative aspect of Shodo, guiding students to connect with their inner selves through the graceful strokes of the brush. She believes that calligraphy is not just about writing beautifully, but about cultivating mindfulness and self-expression. Aiko’s teaching style is patient and encouraging, creating a supportive environment where students of all levels can thrive. She regularly exhibits her work in galleries across Tokyo and has received numerous awards for her contributions to the art of Shodo.
Kenji Sato
Sumi-e (Black Ink Painting)
Master Sato is a renowned Sumi-e artist, known for his expressive and minimalist landscapes that capture the essence of nature. He draws inspiration from the Zen philosophy, teaching his students to observe the world with a keen eye and to translate their observations into simple yet powerful brushstrokes. Kenji's teaching focuses on capturing the ‘ki’ or spirit of the subject, encouraging students to paint from the heart rather than simply copying what they see. He studied with some of the leading Sumi-e masters in Japan and is dedicated to preserving and promoting this ancient art form. Master Sato also runs a small gallery in the Ginza district of Tokyo showcasing his work and the work of his students.
Hana Ishikawa
Manga & Anime Illustration
Hana is a professional manga artist and illustrator with a large following on social media, where she shares her artwork and tutorials. Her teaching style is energetic and engaging, focusing on practical skills and creative storytelling. Hana emphasizes the importance of understanding character design, panel layout, and narrative structure in creating compelling manga stories. She has worked on numerous manga projects for both print and online publication and is passionate about teaching aspiring artists how to create their own unique characters and stories. Hana also frequently collaborates with other artists and studios in Tokyo's vibrant manga scene.
Akari Yamato
Ukiyo-e (Woodblock Printing)
Akari is a skilled Ukiyo-e printmaker and historian, specializing in the techniques and artistry of traditional Japanese woodblock printing. Her teaching style is meticulous and detail-oriented, guiding students through the complex process of carving, inking, and printing to create their own Ukiyo-e masterpieces. Akari emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical context and cultural significance of Ukiyo-e art, drawing inspiration from masters like Hokusai and Hiroshige. She teaches students the fundamentals of carving, inking, and printing, as well as the history and appreciation of Ukiyo-e. Akari also works on restoration projects for antique Ukiyo-e prints, ensuring the preservation of this important art form.
Ren Suzuki
Japanese Watercolor Painting (Nihonga)
Ren Suzuki is a master of Nihonga, the traditional Japanese watercolor painting technique. He focuses on using natural pigments and materials to create artworks that resonate with the beauty of the natural world. Ren's teaching philosophy centers around patience and observation, encouraging students to immerse themselves in the subject matter and capture its essence with delicate brushstrokes. Having learned from renowned Nihonga artists, he is committed to passing on this heritage and fostering a deeper appreciation for this art form. He often leads workshops in the mountains near Kyoto, allowing students to paint directly from nature.
Yumi Ito
Japanese Ceramics and Pottery
Yumi Ito is a highly skilled ceramic artist with over 15 years of experience creating functional and decorative pottery. She specializes in traditional Japanese pottery techniques, including Raku firing and Nerikomi (marbleized clay). Yumi's teaching approach is hands-on and experimental, encouraging students to explore different forms, textures, and glazes to express their creativity. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the properties of clay and the nuances of the firing process. Yumi runs her own pottery studio in Mashiko, a town known for its rich pottery tradition.
Taro Matsumoto
Japanese Paper Cutting (Kirigami)
Taro Matsumoto is a master of Kirigami, the art of Japanese paper cutting. He creates intricate and delicate designs using only a single sheet of paper and a sharp blade. Taro's teaching style is meticulous and precise, guiding students through the techniques of folding, cutting, and unfolding to reveal stunning three-dimensional forms. He emphasizes the importance of patience, precision, and a deep understanding of geometric principles. Taro’s workshops are always highly sought-after, and his work has been featured in numerous exhibitions.