Illustrator

Haruki

Designing Harmony: Where Humans and Animals Shape Life Together

Haruki is a Tokyo-based freelance illustrator whose work centers on the theme of "life design nurtured by humans and animals." From a young age, she had a deep love for drawing, and it was in her second year of high school that she decided to seriously pursue art. She began formal training at an art prep school, where she learned the foundations of drawing, color theory, art, and design. Since launching her freelance career in 2023, Haruki has become known for her vibrant depictions of animals, her beautiful use of color, and the calming effect her illustrations have on viewers. Her work has been featured in picture books and promotional advertisements, earning her a growing recognition.

My journey with ukiyo-e began when I first saw Tsukioka Yoshitoshi’s work, The Great Japanese Generals: Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. As a high school student, I was deeply moved by the delicate details and the bold, contrasting colors. That moment sparked my fascination with ukiyo-e. I was captivated by Katsushika Hokusai’s mastery of space, Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s creative genius, and his ability to make his work relatable to everyone, as well as Yoshitoshi’s daring color compositions. Ukiyo-e spans a wide range of genres, from ancient legends and heroic tales to everyday life. For my current project, I chose to explore the theme of yokai, the supernatural beings of Japanese folklore. Many great ukiyo-e artists before me have explored this genre, and I sought to draw inspiration from these masters while creating a world of my own. I hope my work resonates with you on a personal level.