By Sherif Badr

Taka Sudo, a Japanese born artist residing in British Columbia, recently displayed his work at Hashtag Gallery's 2nd year anniversary with his show "Kinetic Moments." The spontaneity of his work attracted many of our team and while we did cover the show, we wanted to hear from the artist directly. Maybe we'll get to the bottom of this kind of epic inspiration after all.

What's so special about kinetic moments?

TS: This show is Hashtag Gallery's 2 years anniversary show. I really appreciate this great gallery for how it has been inspiring people with all its amazing shows. So in the collection of my new works for the show, I tried to capture and document inspiring moments which we meet once in a while but which is difficult to keep and record.

Moments we push our limits. Moments we struggle. Moments we create. Moments we pray for someone else. Moments we focus. etc.

We love how you chose to work on newspaper. Why?

TS: There are no meanings on selection of newspaper articles. I like playing with the balance of font style and size on newspapers .

Did you draw those big words that weren't part of the newspaper? The words create a lot of mystery in your art!

TS: Some words are done by stencil or rub-on letters, and I also make letters on computer and glue them on.
 

We're a fan of skulls. Why do you like them?

Taka: Skulls are one of cheesiest and most worn-out themes in art. There is just too much skull art, illustration or design. So when I make skull pieces it's always challenging to make them cool and unique in a way you've never seen. I like that challenge.

How do you choose the animals (e.g. guerilla, fish, wolf) involved in your works?

Taka: I like to see human expressions on animal faces or human passion in animal movement. I choose particular animals when I could find traces of human expression or spirit.

Why Buddha?

Taka: I visited 1000 years old ancient temple in Japan a few years ago. It was a very quiet and powerful moment for me. I'm not religious at all. But I could feel strong energy where people pray. I was very inspired by that serene and powerful place and moment.

Can you talk about the steps you do your work in? Do you start with a pencil?

Taka: Making background with newspapers and/or brush stroke first. Doing rough pencil sketch, then pasting newspapers and photos with making outlines. Then coloring by acrylic paints. Then drawing black and white lines by markers, pens and inks. Then adding more brightness and splashes with spray paint. Roughly like that.

What's your favourite brush of all time?

Taka:

Japanese extra fine point brush.
Montana soft cap (spray nozzle).

Any secrets for other painters reading this looking for tips? (imagine you had a special student)

Taka: I'm 100% sober when I make pieces.

What advice would you give all artists?

Taka: Don't make art when you are drunk or hungover.

How can people get a hold of you?