Ryo Kato

Ryo Kato was raised in the Japanese town of Tessei, nestled in the district of Okayama in the southwest region of the country, boasting a population of around 3,000 inhabitants. His father, a ceramist, and his mother, a jewelry designer, provided an artistic environment from his early years.

Showing an early passion for painting and drawing, influenced by his parents’ professions, Kato’s artistic journey took an unexpected turn when his father introduced him to the game of Go, hoping to groom him into a professional player. At the age of nine, he relocated to Tokyo to pursue intensive Go apprenticeship. This international exposure brought him into contact with students from diverse backgrounds, fostering an appreciation for different cultures, mentalities, and art forms.

During his time in Tokyo, Kato’s interests shifted towards exploring the human connection with nature, a theme that would become central to his artistic exploration. Encountering a book on French Impressionism at the age of 14 sparked a pivotal moment, leading him to abandon his Go apprenticeship and pursue a career in art. At 17, he embarked on a journey to Paris to study art, where he transitioned from a classical, realistic style to a more liberated, fantastical approach.

Following his time in Paris, Kato settled in Berlin, where he developed his unique artistic style—a fusion of abstraction and realism. This distinct style garnered international attention, leading to exhibitions in countries such as Japan and the United States.

Driven by a desire to convey a message about humanity’s relationship with the natural world, Kato’s art aims to raise awareness of our impact on the environment. With numerous art prizes to his name and regular appearances at international art fairs, Kato continues to inspire audiences with his thought-provoking creations.