Meet Sumire Kudo | Oil Painter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sumire Kudo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sumire, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I firmly believe that taking risks is essential. Before transitioning into fine art, I worked as a designer in my home country, leading a life surrounded by a stable job, reliable income, and close friends. Had I continued down that path, I likely would have climbed the career ladder, started a family, and by now, I might have been living a comfortable, secure life. Yet, I made the choice to leave all of that behind and pursue fine art in an unfamiliar land. Living in a foreign country and being a minority turned out to be far more isolating than I ever imagined, and it brought mental strains that at times even affected my physical health. Still, even if I had the chance to go back in time, I would choose the same path without hesitation — because had I not taken that risk, the new knowledge and experiences I gained here as a painter, the strength to live, and above all, my artworks would not exist.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What does good art mean to you? To me, good art isn’t about exceptional technique, surprising ideas, or financial value. It’s about being able to see how the artist perceives the world through their work.

I’ve always found myself in environments that are constantly changing. In those settings, I’ve met people from many different backgrounds—different nationalities, values, and economic circumstances—and my own situation has shifted dramatically at times. Through those experiences, I’ve often seen things decided unfairly, regardless of people’s choices or efforts. Those moments were painful, and deeply sad.

But looking back at history, there have always been people who questioned such situations, and others who helped spread those questions. Bit by bit, that’s how society’s values have changed. I think artists can also be among those who ask such questions. Not everything has a clear right or wrong, or a simple answer. But I believe there’s meaning in asking, in talking, in thinking together, in recognizing each other’s perspectives, and in searching for better ways. Through my work, I aim to create pieces that encourage people to reconsider our shared concepts.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Spending time at cafés is one of the greatest pleasures in my life. I love writing, sketching, or studying in a cozy café environment. What I especially appreciate about LA is its diversity, which is beautifully reflected in the distinct character of its cafés, from the music and interior design to the style of the cups they serve. Santa Monica and West LA, in particular, have such a wonderful ambiance, and I highly recommend visiting!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I offer my admiration and respect to painters around the world—past, present, and future. Traditional painters, in particular, have learned from the Old Masters, spent decades honing their craft, and passed their knowledge and techniques down to the next generation. I, too, have learned from Old Masters and from great traditional painters who continue to shape the art world today. More recently, I’ve also received words of encouragement from young aspiring painters.

In an age when technology and modern forms of expression dominate the mainstream, traditional media like oil painting may seem outdated at first glance. Yet, I am deeply moved by the enduring chain of passion among painters—one that has preserved culture through the centuries and reflected the spirit of each era. I am proud to be part of that ongoing lineage.

Website: https://sumirekudo.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sumirekudo/

Image Credits
Sumire Kudo