Today we’d like to introduce you to Yumiko Kitazono.
Hi Yumiko, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always loved art. My childhood dream was to become an artist. Though I didn’t pursue an art degree at university due to insecurities in my ability and opposition from my parents, I couldn’t stay away from art. I went to Tokyo Design School at night to study illustration while I was a senior at university. That’s when I began to dream about illustrating children’s books. Shortly after I graduated from university, I got married to an American and moved to the States. I focused on being a wife and stay-at-home mom for the next two decades, homeschooling my kids and supporting their dreams. During those years, I drew and painted mainly for them: princesses for the big girls and dinosaurs for my son.
In 2017, I was going through a divorce and in one of the most painful seasons of my life. To express my pain, I started drawing again and found it very healing. Eventually, creating art brought joy back to me. I’d give my art to friends and was so blessed by their joyful reactions—sometimes even tears of joy!
I needed to find a job after being a stay-at-home mom for 26 years and knew this was an opportunity for me to pursue that childhood dream of becoming an artist and illustrator. As a freelance artist, I can work from home and have flexible hours so that I can continue to homeschool my son. I thought if I can make a living doing what I love and bring others joy, that’s a dream come true.
In May 2019, God opened up the door for me to be a part of GEMS, a small business launch program for women by WeVenture. I took a baby step of faith, supported by my family and friends. I stuck through the rigorous program and graduated three months later and launched my small art business, Studio Yuming. Since then, I’ve sold original art and fine art prints on Etsy, at local pop-up events, and in a coffee shop. I’ve been commissioned to illustrate for businesses and private clients. I’m always learning something new, whether new techniques, marketing strategies or digital art. Currently, I’m preparing my portfolio to pursue illustrating for children’s books, editorials, and toy/game/surface designs. Studio Yuming wouldn’t be here without loving support from God, my family, and friends.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Last year was the toughest year for me physically and for my business. It was a challenging year for everyone due to COVID-19. I had such a great event in early March where I felt like I’d found the right target market for my art and wanted to keep going. Then the pandemic hit and everything closed. All the pop-up events were canceled for a long time. Not only did the lack of venues and exposure negatively affect my income, but I also got very ill from COVID pneumonia and took several months to recover.
Although I experienced challenges, I also experienced the goodness, kindness, love, and support of my community through my sickness and quarantine period. I used that time to take multiple online courses to improve my art skills and taught myself how to create art digitally. I joined creative communities online and found it so helpful to be connected to like-minded creatives for encouragement, inspiration, and practical help. I had multiple opportunities to create art that encouraged others and brought joy during quarantine. I participated in a collaborative project with more than 200 artists from all over the world to create a free coloring and activity ebook.
Most of all, I’m thankful I’m still alive and I can still create and enjoy life with my loved ones. I’m thankful for how God provided hope and help through people around me. I want to continue to create art that brings people joy, especially in this trying time.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m the owner, artist, and illustrator for Studio Yuming. I create art to bring joy and meaning to others in my whimsical style, which is detailed, vibrant and influenced by Japanese comics. My current favorite way to create is to start with gouache or watercolor, then add textures and final touches digitally.
I do commissioned work for businesses and private clients. I create logos, labels, business cards, avatars, and banners for social media. I illustrate for children’s books, editorials, home decor, stationery, and surface patterns. I also offer custom portraits for people, pets, and places. I’m proud of teaching myself how to create digitally though I’m older and not tech-savvy! When I look at my portfolio, I feel proud because I can see how much I’ve learned and improved in the last two years by creating nearly every day and taking different courses consistently. I feel the happiest when my art brightens up someone’s not-so-happy day or knowing it brings joyful memories of their loved ones. You can see my portfolio at studioyuming.com and follow along my work on Instagram @studioyuming.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
It’s so crucial to surround myself with people who appreciate and support my dreams and goals on this journey. As a creative, I face my inner critic all the time. I often deal with imposter syndrome. Being part of a positive online artist community has helped me tremendously, and I’ve learned to be kinder to myself and my artwork. Knowing what I’m dealing with is very common among the creatives makes me feel validated. Giving and receiving encouragement with other artists helps me stay motivated and inspired. Being connected with like-minded people helps me move towards my vision. I also have a very supportive family and friends. My children are my biggest fans and advocates of my art, and I’m so thankful for them. We’re not created to do life alone. Especially in a difficult time like now, we need to be amongst a community where we feel safe, accepted, and encouraged.
Contact Info:
- Email: yumiko@studioyuming.com
- Website: studioyuming.com
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/studioyuming
- Facebook: www.Facebook.com/studioyuming
- Other: www.etsy.com/shop/StudioYuming
