Tamayo is one of the talented international artists who has made Australia her home and is part of the International Harmony Exhibition.
Where did your love of art begin?
I was born in Fukuoka, Japan. When I was young, I wanted to be either a cartoonist or a kimono designer, but unfortunately in Japan, more serious study topics were always considered more important than spending hours painting. So, for then, I followed a more academic path.
When did your International travels begin?
I lived in New Zealand for several years. In 1986, my Australian husband and I moved to Carnarvon, Western Australia. In 1994, we moved to Tasmania. In 2007, I graduated from the Art School at the University of Tasmania with a Bachelor of Fine Art. Between 2011 and 2013, I was fortunate enough to take an amazing long-term journey around the whole of Europe, North America, and Canada, visiting hundreds of fantastic art galleries and museums and being inspired by them. We finally settled in Perth in 2014.
How did you put this inspiration into action in Perth?
Once settled in Perth, my goal to become a great artist was invigorated, and I decided I would make art for the rest of my life. I want to challenge my limits! What is the main theme of your work? Harmony between Two Cultures is my main theme. Recently, I’ve concentrated on creating images of colorful, stylized ladies depicting the harmony, not the conflict, between Japan and Australia. My way of doing this is to weave different icons from the East and the West into my work.
What are some of the achievements you are most proud of?
I have held many solo and group exhibitions in Tasmania and Perth, including demonstrations and classes in silk painting. I am proud that my work shows love and hope for all humanity by bridging different cultures. I am also proud to have been acknowledged in several art awards in 2017 and 2019.
What is your favourite medium?
I specialise in oil and acrylic painting, watercolour and silk painting, and printmaking.
The best thing about art?
Life is always full of new challenges!
Exhibition:
Connect with Tamayo:
Mob/SMS 0459794728
Instagram: @tamayoleahy124
