Painter

Born in 1971

Currently based in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan

After working as an illustrator, began a career as a contemporary artist in 1997.

Paused artistic production in 2005 after feeling the limitations of her work as a visual artist.

Resumed creative activity in 2019.

Having experienced the COVID-19 pandemic, she decided to focus on painting what she truly wanted to express.

In 2023, she began painting “handsome men” (ikemen) to create artworks that would spark joy and excitement in the viewer.

In pursuit of expressing a new version of herself, she changed her artist name from her real name to Mingo Ooki.

Continues to present work through solo and group exhibitions.

About the Artwork

In the past, I painted as a means of exploring myself. However, after a period when I was emotionally broken, unable to hold the brush, and unable to create, I began to reflect on what I truly wanted to express in the present.

Through the life experiences I gained during that time, I realized I wanted to create works that I myself wanted to see—works that would bring a sense of thrill and joy to those who view them.

My goal is to create artwork that gives people who live their daily lives with sincerity a feeling of moe—a kind of emotional excitement—and inspires them to live positively.

For this purpose, I chose “ikemen” (handsome men)  as my main motifs.

Being a woman and being Japanese are both aspects I deeply consider when creating my art. I use techniques and visual styles that reflect these identities.

Incorporating gold leaf, the traditional flatness of Japanese aesthetics, the beauty of kimono and traditional patterns, I strive to produce works that embody both visual beauty and strength.