The first POPUP in the downtown area of illustrator “hirockshow” was held from 8/6 to 8/21 at the coffee shop “Coffee by Jalana” in Ameyoko. In addition to the exhibition of original canvas art, limited collaboration T-shirts with original illustrations were also sold.
SUMMER OF LOVE
The theme of this POPUP is “SUMMER OF LOVE” with the concept of “feel the summer”. The colors of the works were unified with summer colors, and original works finished with a retro touch were exhibited. He also said that he was conscious of creating works that matched the atmosphere of Coffee by Jalana, the venue.
Introducing some of the works
「summer fun」
A work inspired by the famous band “The Beach Boys” in the 60’s. Modern surfers are falling in love with California surf culture. A piece finished in classic colors inspired by California in the 60’s.
「the endless summer」
A work that imaged a bad man in summer. It comically expresses the story of “I was planning to pick her up and go surfing, but her car broke down on the way.” This work contains the message, “It doesn’t necessarily have to be perfect. It’s okay if there are some missing parts.”
「all need is love」
Inspired by Beatles songs. The theme is “What you need in the end is love”. The empty cart has the meaning of wanting you to pack a lot of love in your future life. In addition, it is also described that there is a sentimental part that loves flowers even in a hippie useless man. A work full of advanced techniques that expresses summer with only a small number of colors and light depiction without including the summery sun and sea.
Interview with illustrator “hirockshow”
hirockshow (Hiroshi Kawai)
After graduating from an art school, he got a job at a printing company. At the age of 29, she won an award in a competition organized by a publishing company, which prompted her to quit the company and start working as an illustrator. As “Hiroshi Kawai” he undertakes work from his publishers and agencies, and as “hirokshow” he sells his own art at events and holds workshops. He has a track record of co-producing Mos Burger packages and shirts with apparel maker “Good On” this summer. In addition, he is also active in a wide range of activities such as mural art for stores all over the country.
-What made you fall in love with illustrations?
“I wanted to become a manga artist, so I have been drawing ever since I was in kindergarten. Then, under the influence of my father, I became obsessed with collecting records, and became interested in record jacket artwork and letter fonts. I like the music of the 1960s and 1970s, and as I researched it, I became more and more influenced by American comics, etc. As a result, I am often drawn to classic works.”
-What is the difficulty of working as an illustrator?
“As an illustrator, I have to respond to any order that comes my way. That is why I think I have to be able to draw a variety of pictures. I have been to overseas tourist attractions, races, live houses, and core events, and have actively seen things that interest me.In the past, I used to sketch people on the train.Become an illustrator. This kind of experience I had before is still useful, so I can handle any order that comes my way.”
-Please tell us about your future prospects.
“I have two children, so I want to make a picture book. I would like to make a theme of music and children.”
