Osamu Kobayashi.

When I first started making abstract paintings it became a sort of philosophical pursuit.

9 Questions to Osamu Kobayashi.

American artist, living and working in Brooklyn, New York.

What is your art about?

When I first started making abstract paintings it became a sort of philosophical pursuit; I used reductive forms and flat colors to deconstruct the visual world. It was not only about aesthetics, but also about abstract ideas in general — spirituality, humor, relationships, nature, time, etc. These days, I think less about meaning and just paint to paint. I don’t rationalize everything about my work, and it has allowed me more freedom in my painting decisions.

Please tell us more about your working process, routine, your studio set up and the way you approach new artworks.

I often have a wall with just one canvas on it and nothing else. Distractions around the wall are removed from sight. If music is playing, I turn it off. I can then focus my attention on the painting. Recently, I’ve been making sketches before starting on a work. The compositions have become more complex, so it helps to know where everything will go. There are times when I’m in the studio a lot and times when I’m not. The time away is just as important as it helps me to bring back new ideas to the work and it keeps myself from getting stuck in a loop.

What is fertiliser for your work?

Thinking about my past work and looking at other artists’ work.

Who or what has recently impressed you?

Various podcasts. I like Strangers by Lea Thau.

Have a beer with an artist of your choice? Whom?

Giotto.

What’s your favourite city and why?

New York, Brooklyn because of its energy, diversity, and grittiness.

What’s your favourite restaurant and why?

My folks own a small japanese restaurant called Camon in Columbia, South Carolina. My dad is the sushi chef. Whenever I go home to visit family and friends it’s the first place I go to eat.

What would you do with five euro found in the streets?

I’d pick it up and think of all the things I could do with it, and then likely forget I have it.

Do you have any dream projects in mind that you would like to do in the future? 

This summer, I painted my first mural. I’d like to do more.

2017, Exposure, oil on canvas, 40″ x 36″ (102cm x 91cm)

2017, Bubble Brothers, oil on canvas, 112″ x 120″ (284.5cm x 305cm)

2017, Vibes, oil on canvas, 76″ x 80″ (193cm x 203cm)

Installation View

Pearl, 72″ x 72″ (183cm x 183cm), oil on canvas, 2017​

Osamu Kobayashi.

www.osamu-kobayashi.com

All images © Osamu Kobayashi

0 replies

Leave a Reply

Want to join the discussion?
Feel free to contribute!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *