Explore Saeko Ehara's journey into kirakira and vijay art in Tokyo, delving into her fusion of AI and generative art, and her mission to infuse the world with sparkle.

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— How do you view the role of artists like yourself in the era of digital art and AI? What responsibilities come with it?

I've been fortunate to have had the opportunity to collaborate with many amazing individuals, honing my skills in oil painting, gaining experience as a VJ and digital artist, and exploring various avenues of creativity. Recently, at Art Fair Tokyo, I held a solo exhibition with √K Contemporary, a gallery based in Kagurazaka. Notably, it was the only gallery exclusively showcasing digital art at the event. In Japan, it's still uncommon for physical art galleries to feature digital artwork, so I was impressed by their willingness to take on such a challenge.

Having been given this opportunity, I see it as my role to gradually blur the boundaries between different artistic genres, be it physical or digital. Looking ahead, I would be delighted if the representation of digital artists in physical galleries became more commonplace, or if traditional artists ventured into the digital realm. Ultimately, I envision a world where artistic expression is more fluid and enjoyable for all.

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— When initiating a new artwork, what is your preliminary step? Could you walk us through your creative process?

When embarking on a new project, I typically start by conceptualizing a simple idea or theme. For projects with a predetermined theme, I brainstorm ideas that align with it. Subsequently, I utilize AI to generate images and incorporate generative animation using TouchDesigner, a node-based software for visual coding. Lastly, I employ Adobe to edit and enhance the visuals with sparkling effects. Often, I refine the concept as I work, finalizing the title and accompanying text after the completion of the piece.

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— How do you balance the technical precision of coding with the fluidity of artistic expression, and what challenges do you face in this integration?

I dedicate a significant amount of time to watching TouchDesigner tutorials to familiarize myself with the technology. When approaching animation, I carefully select techniques that complement the conceptual framework of the piece. My aim is always to utilize technology as a means of expressing a concept, rather than merely showcasing technical prowess.

Given that I haven't yet mastered all aspects of TouchDesigner, I may encounter challenges in fully realizing my ideas. However, I believe that continued learning and experimentation are essential for creating impactful works.

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— How does music influence the aesthetic decisions in your visual art? Do you visualize music in terms of colors, shapes, or movements?

When collaborating with a musician, my initial step is to thoroughly research their background. This involves studying past biographies, artwork, music videos, interviews, and any available live footage. After gaining a comprehensive understanding of the musician, I conceptualize the visual elements, considering factors such as color palette, motifs, animation style, and pacing. I frequently develop visuals while immersing myself in the musician's songs, allowing their music to inspire and guide the creative process.

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— Looking forward, are there new aesthetic directions or themes you are interested in exploring? How do you anticipate your style evolving with the continuous advancements in technology?

I aim to delve deeply into the essence of Japanese expressions beyond the conventional realms of Japanese paintings, ukiyo-e, anime, manga, and technology. My exploration seeks to uncover original forms of expression while considering the sensual elements, historical contexts, and artistic traditions. Following my solo exhibition at Art Fair Tokyo, I've developed a keen interest in the physical presentation of digital art. Additionally, my previous fascination with the interactive field has reignited my desire to explore new avenues of creative experimentation.

I have a strong affinity for new tools, and I actively seek out innovative technologies to incorporate into my visual expression. If opportunities arise to delve into interactive fields further, I am eager to embrace the challenge.

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— How do you stay authentic in an era where digital art can be easily replicated or modified?

I don't adhere strictly to the pursuit of originality. Much of my creative expression is influenced by others and draws inspiration from the works of past masters. Even if someone replicates the surface expression of another, I believe the original ideas remain intact and cannot be usurped. Instead, I focus on genuinely following my own creative exploration.

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‍— How do you think the rise of virtual and augmented reality will affect the creation and consumption of art? Are you seeing an uptick in NFTs

VR, AR, and NFT represent innovative frontiers in the realm of art. I believe there are boundless possibilities for their utilization and advancement that extend beyond our current imaginations. 

While I've been engaged in the NFT community since 2021, I've observed its susceptibility to market fluctuations. Many artists tend to withdraw from the space during downturns. However, I anticipate this trend of market volatility to become more commonplace as the field continues to evolve.