Hisashi Tenmyouya, who calls his style “Neo-Nihonga” (New Japanese-style painting). In 2006, his work for FIFA World Cup official art poster ensured his fame and his own style. The release of a new book “KAMON / TENMYOUYA HISASHI” comes out this November. This is a report on him who has been active beyond the framework on the basis of Japanese traditional art “Nihonga”.

Blue Dragon © Hisashi Tenmyouya

First of all, please introduce yourself.

I am “Neo-Nihonga-Eshi” (New Japanese-style painter), Hisashi Tenmyouya.

Tell us about your original Neo-Kamon collection “KAMON / TENMYOUYA HISASHI” (family crests) that goes on sale on November 7th?

I was offered a publication that consists of Kamonish deign up to now for different media and some new works. That includes my 24 piece of works made after the third anthology. Therefore it is not too much to say that it will be my forth anthology.

KAMON © Hisashi Tenmyouya

What was a trigger when you set out applying Nihonga and Ukiyoe technique?

I used to take Nihonga class when I was in the lower grades, then slid into who I am carrying that memory close to my heart somehow.

One Hundred Poems by One Hundred Poets © Hisashi Tenmyouya

You got into the limelight overseas when you made a FIFA World Cup official poster. Did it change your life?

Nothing in particular, I guess. (laugh) I suppose it became a big chance to get to know me.