junichi tsuneoka volume 2, 2006, #022

junichi tsuneoka was born and raised in japan and has lived in the US since the end of 20th century. over the past few years, he has developed an artistic style often described as a cross between japanese comic (manga) and graffiti.

1. how would you explain 'art' - in 19 words or less? everything that one can create - even a toilet stool.

2. what is the first work of art you ever loved? one of the children's books that i read when i was a kid. at the time, that book made me want to be an artist - a children's book illustrator.

3. how important is theory to your art? thinking process is definitely important to my artwork, because that's part of my art. usually the theory somebody else came up with isn't that important.

4. describe your ideal art workspace. not too big, not too small, lots of books, interesting location, and a dog is hanging around.

5. describe your current art workspace. not big, not too small, some good books, pretty close to a bookstore, and a dog is hanging around.

6. if you could be placed in suspended animation and safely reanimated at some time in the future with the sole purpose being to see how history treated you / your art, would you do it?
probably not. i wouldn't be so concerned how history treated me as long as i am happy with my art.

7. who are some of your favourite artists (contemporary or canonical)? i like somebody who has a really different and bold style, and i like somebody that influenced me personally … in that sense, modern dog design co, george estrada, mark atherton, and nate williams.

8. tell us about a gallery (online or physical space) that you think rocks, and why you think it rocks. i think that a gallery that has a theme with their look, and match with what they display, rocks. just some pretty spaces don't rock.

9. would you choose the baked bean jaffle or the caramelised pumpkin and red onion tart with crispy radicchio and hazelnut salad with apple vinaigrette? neither - i would rather have california rolls.

10. finish this sentence: "the work of art can / cannot be considered separately to the artist because ________." even a jerk might produce excellent artwork … people cannot love him, but people can love his art.

check out more of junichi's work at: www.stubbornsideburn.com

dizzee rascal poster, screen print, 2005

magnolia poster, screen print, 2005

modern dog run, screen print, 2005