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xi (彩) / Hideyuki MORI

Illustrator & CEO of AYANE International Inc.

Background

Born in Tokyo in1973. Graduated from Department of Japanese Painting, Musashino Art University.
Learned traditional techniques of Japanese painting from Gyokkou Tanaka, the third head master of Sijou-ha Seika-kai. Studied painting with mainly a motif of sakura (cherry blossoms).
Held first exhibition at Mitsukoshi Department Store in Nihonbashi in 2003.
Started activities as an illustrator in 2006 with illustrations of street fashion, etc.
Won a prize at @Creators Haru-ichiban Illustration Contest in March 2007.
Won a grand prix at Girls Illustration Exhibition #2 in October 2008.
Won many other prizes.
Founded AYANE International Inc. in 2008.
Set up “HYACCA,” group to support illustrators, in 2008.
Held “SAKURA Exhibition” in March 2009.

Technique

After a preliminary sketch on rough paper, colors are painted with computer.
Main lines are unrefined because of the combination of rough paper and pencils but they give strength to his pictures.
His style of illustrations is quite unique and very impressive.

Style

Drawing illustrations mainly with a motif of young women in street fashion.
Having a theme of “strong modern women who flatter nobody and nothing.”
Rather somber colors are produced with the feeling of much worn jeans.