GAKU

Born in Yokohama in 2001 and raised in Los Angeles, GAKU now works from his studio in Kawasaki, Japan. Diagnosed with autism and a language disorder, he finds it difficult to fully express his thoughts and sensations through speech. At sixteen, he discovered another form of expression: painting.

It began with a visit to the Taro Okamoto Museum of Art in Kawasaki. Usually in motion, GAKU stopped in front of one painting and gazed at it intently. The following day, he announced “Gaku Paint!” and began painting on his own.

GAKU’s paintings speak directly to the senses. Vivid colors shaped by his years abroad, bold compositions and free forms filling the canvas all reflect his personality. The animals he paints are smiling. Each work embodies GAKU’s HAPPY energy.

His expression reaches across borders through exhibitions in Japan and overseas, as well as collaborations with global brands. Beyond national and linguistic boundaries, his work speaks to each viewer’s senses and opens up new conversations.

Creating more than 200 works a year, GAKU uses painting as a point of connection with society. If painting is his language, he has a great deal to say.