Mitsushige NISHIWAKI

Mitsushige Nishiwaki is a self-taught etcher who has carved out a unique place for himself in the contemporary art world. His early travels while working in the European business sector for a Japanese industrial company, followed by postgraduate studies in graphic design in Arizona and work as a graphic designer in bustling New York City, inform and inspire his singular, humorous images of Europe and the USA. These images are created back home in vibrant Tokyo, a city bursting with life and artistic opportunities. Drawing inspiration from bustling street scenes in Paris, New York and London, Nishiwaki’s spirited and evocative etchings offer a refreshing and imaginative take on iconic urban scenery. They are characterised by their seemingly naïve and innocent yet deeply insightful "outsider art" perspective. His etching technique is textured and bold, yet his artwork possesses a delicate and whimsical quality that draws viewers into the intricate narratives and emotions embedded within each piece. They are windows into the heart of urban life, inviting viewers to experience the eternal dance of city dwellers and the unseen stories that weave their way through the streets.

Having taught himself the complex techniques of intaglio since 2009, Nishiwaki meticulously and skilfully crafts his etchings on copperplate, showcasing his dedication and relentless pursuit of his art. To intensify the colour and add layers of visual interest, he etches on plastic, enhancing the viewer's experience. Many of his larger works are ingeniously constructed from a series of small print plates, providing a sturdy armature that allows for a lively interplay of colour and texture, keeping the audience engaged and intrigued. Nishiwaki graduated from Hosei University in Tokyo with a degree in Graphic Design. He currently works as an artist and graphic designer in Tokyo, balancing his creative endeavours with the demands of city life. His artwork has been exhibited in numerous venues across Japan, France, England, and the United States, enabling him to share his unique artistic vision with a broader audience and contribute to cultural dialogue in these diverse locations.