Juggling her passions as an artist, art educator and independent curator, Sonomi Kobayashi is no stranger to the arts. Raised in Japan and based in New York, the artist has a unique lens into the creative sphere—blending traditional and contemporary techniques into her work as well as influences of science, physics, astronomy, nature and spirituality. Kobayashi’s guiding ethos—using art for healing, meditation and inspiration—shines through everything the artist does, whether she is creating something special for an exhibition, traveling across the globe, hosting one of her workshops or teaching classes for young art students. Kobayashi is truly a modern renaissance woman, with incredible talent to boot. 

“I teach children's art class at The Art Students League and also sometimes substitute for their adult abstract classes.”

“I also work for a community program teaching art and crafts to children enrolled in NYC Parks Learning Labs and occasionally teach watercolor and printmaking for adults in NYC Parks' Arts, Culture and Fun workshops.”

“In 2019, I received a Certificate of Recognition from the Mayoral Service Recognition Program of NYC.” 

“I also started holding workshops of my own, teaching watercolor and alcohol ink art which is a newer material that many people are interested in now.”

Where did your love of art begin?

“My family was not artistic (though my father told me he liked to draw as a child, and I saw him drawing a portrait once when I was young). I never thought that I would study art and had no idea it would be my life work. I always loved to paint or draw more than hanging out with others outdoors as a child. I don't remember this, but my kindergarten teacher sent my mom a note...when everybody was drawing leaves in the class, I was drawing one with veins and all the details, and the teacher thought it was very good for that age.”

From your perspective, what are the notable differences between Japanese and American art? 

“I never studied art in Japan, but many people say they see Japanese influences in my art. I did grow up in Japan, so I probably have observed Japanese culture without noticing. Since I moved to New York, I enjoy Japanese art more than when I lived there. I love visiting old temples or castles when I go back to Japan. I find Japanese art, especially old pieces, are well designed, using fine lines, subtle emotional expression and have a lot more detail compared to art in the United States.”

What is your favorite part about the classes you teach?

“My class is about enjoying the process, not the result. I love hearing that many of the participants say that they got into their art so much that they felt like they went back to being a child. I started teaching alcohol ink art since the pandemic started, both online and in-person in small groups. This material is very unique and you kind of have to let ink work on its own. It’s easy and enjoyable for people who are new to art, as well as artists who want to explore this new material.”

This issue is all about “renewal.” What inspired you to start your workshops for healing through artwork? 

“Working on my art is like a meditation for me, sometimes frustrating, but usually I find an inner peace once I am in the ‘zone’. It helps bring me to the present moment. Because of the pandemic, many people had to change their lifestyles and felt insecure and anxious in living in uncertain times. I think art helps people find inner peace in their own way, as well as think dimensionally for a ‘new normal’ life.”

*Maybe web address for online workshops? Or including pricing or dates?

What’s on the horizon for you?

“I will be participating in an art book fair with Printed Matter, Inc. at NADA Miami a couple of art events including Kameyama Triennale and a group exhibition in Japan. Right now I am continuing teaching the art class at The Art Students League of New York, and I am planning to do more alcohol ink art workshops. My goal is always to help people in art in some way, either by giving fun art projects or showcasing my own artwork.”