Rika Nagahata
ABOUT RIKA NAGAHATA
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Rika was born in Japan and has been living in New Zealand since 2008. While in Japan she graduated from Osaka Art University majoring in print making. This time at university experimenting with different copper-plate printing techniques has greatly influenced her art today.
"I was always interested in traditional Japanese art "Nihonga" so I decided to study it. We use a special Japanese watercolour called Gansai for Nihonga. I still use Gansai and ink for my works. I think my art is a mix of traditional and modern technique but I cant really categorize it." Although Rika now uses ink and watercolours to create originals instead of prints, her exquisite patterns and fine lines reflect the intricate process of etching. This unique connection gives her works a special feel and presence that enables the viewer to get entranced and lost in Rika's art. "I also studied print making and that is a big part of my art culture between my group of friends. We all share ideas and techniques." The numerous unique and beautiful animals New Zealand has to offer also have a big influence on Rika's art as well as various children's book illustrators and traditional Japanese art. |
