Vendor Interview- Irene Akio Illustration
Tell our readers a bit about yourself and your work.
I am a painter/illustrator and make greeting cards and prints from my artwork. About four years ago, I started painting again after being away from the brush for ten years. A friend and colleague saw my work and asked me to illustrate a children’s book about Tokyo, my place of birth. I loved the project and didn’t want to stop drawing. Being a letter writer and lover of stationary, I decided to start a greeting card business. My hope is that my drawings and cards give people a simple moment of delight.
What are some sources of your inspiration?
The most obvious inspiration comes from character of the animals that I paint. I like finding creatures that have a little extra spunk. You look at twenty different foxes and you see twenty very different personalities. One looks sweet, another looks mischievous. On a larger scale, I am inspired by my friends and the ways in which they push themselves to grow and continue to learn about the amazing world we live in and how to make it better.
What was the best thing you did this summer?
This last summer was a summer of family, which was fantastic. My family lives in the midwest and in Japan, and I really enjoy showing off the beautiful Northwest and taking them to my favorite spots around town.
Are you showcasing anything new at the winter show?
I have added several new designs, including two holiday cards.
What are you most excited for about UCU?
The summer show was my first UCU show, and my favorite part was meeting my customers face-to-face. It's a blast to talk to people and find out about their arts/crafts interests and to get direct feedback about my products!
See more of Irene's work here and this weekend at the show!
