Asami Watanabe Illustration
Nanaimo, Vancouver Island/Coast
Asami Watanabe Illustration
Nanaimo, Vancouver Island/Coast
My name is Asami Watanabe, a Japanese illustrator based in Vancouver Island, BC. I enjoy creating surreal still lifes, whimsical characters, and fancy flora. For over 12 years I worked as a professional hairstylist in both Japan and Vancouver. After having my daughter, I realized my passion for illustration and decided to follow my dreams of becoming an illustrator. I’ve since opened my own online store where I sell prints, postcards and stickers. I have also taken a lot of commissions for magazines, musicians, small businesses, and people. As a self-taught artist, I get inspiration from anything vintage. My style is colourful and nostalgic while being uniquely my own.
Nominations
Read below to find out why they deserve your vote in each category.
Best Youth Entrepreneur
What motivated you to start your business and what is your vision for the future of the company?
Every time I create something new, I feel like I’m visualizing what’s in my mind. Creating new stories and worlds makes me feel like anything is possible, and motivates me to be creative and productive. For the future, I’d like to expand my art to the world more and more.
Why do you deserve to win the Best Youth Entrepreneur Award?
I started my business about 2 years ago and I’ve already worked on a broad range of projects for many businesses and artists, including some famous businesses, which I think it’s quite remarkable for a self-taught artist. My drive to provide unique and memorable work, and increase my following shows the dedication I have to my craft.
People's Choice
Why do you think you should win the Premier’s People’s Choice Award?
My illustration style is very unique and every piece I create is one of a kind. Even though I get a lot of compliments when someone sees my art, I would like to have more people see the works that I create. This award would give me more ways to connect with people who would love my art and future clients.