An artist based in Japan

Kay Sadaoka

Kay Sadaoka fell in love with lettering in 2019 and began exploring different techniques and media. She eventually discovered calligraphy, and began honing her skills through online workshops and disciplined practice.

Kay teaches hand-lettering, published a book on glass pens in Japan and was appointed Brand Creator of Sakura Color Products in which role she designed some of the art supply packages.

Though Kay still loves built-up letters with fine details and figurative illustrations, her interest in expressive and abstract arts has been growing. She took the opportunity of this Symbiosis mentorship to dive in and explore out of her comfort zone. The process was very liberating and fun, and opened up new possibilities for intuitive and expressive art-making.

Kay is a Kendo practitioner and tries to combine her understanding of this ancient art with expressive calligraphy in her exhibited pieces.

Follow Kay on Instagram: @kaysaratatsu