The art of Emi Shiratori gives Hokkaido’s natural landscapes greater meaning and beauty.

The Green Leaf Niseko Village, Emi Shiratori has created works that celebrate nature. Melding and moulding themes and visual currents, her art inspires conversations. She speaks to YTL Life about her art pieces and how they welcome and engage each guest.

CAN YOU TELL ME A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND HOW YOU STARTED AS AN ARTIST?

Since I was a child, I loved not only playing outdoors, but also always having my little notebook with me for sketches. I also enjoyed reading fantasy stories, and creating these stories in my imagination. I think the first time I got in touch with the arts was when I learned ballet, and from that time onwards I had a deep interest in anything to do with fine arts. I decided to learn graphic and product design at the Hokkaido School of Fine Arts. Developing gradually over the following years, I collaborated through my artworks for many projects, from concert flyers, album jackets, designs for event invitations, live painting, to product designs and also holding my art exhibitions. Currently, my artworks are being exhibited at several art fairs throughout the world.

HOW DID THE IDEA COME UP TO ADD YOUR CREATIONS TO THE GREEN LEAF NISEKO VILLAGE?

My artwork and products are displayed in Hilton Niseko Village. It was then that the art director in charge of The Green Leaf Niseko Village renovations noticed my work, and I received the offer to collaborate on the project as a local Hokkaido artist.

WHAT INSPIRES YOUR ARTWORK?

I am aiming to reflect the natural beauty of Hokkaido and that is also what I would like guests to feel. For the key visual, the animals of Hokkaido inspired me. I included them into my art style, intertwining them with organic patterns that reflect the area’s abundance of nature.

HOW DOES ART HELP IN CREATING A LUXURY TRAVEL EXPERIENCE?

The pleasures of the luxury travel experience exist in the small things and special moments that make up the trip. For example, when opening a door, guests should be welcomed by an elegant and sophisticated space that is different from normal daily life, a space that transports them from the norm.

HOW DO YOU THINK ART, TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY WORK TOGETHER?

I believe that there are several travel styles and demands of travel experiences. For example, travelling the world for snowboarding, skiing and art. I feel that through art, the traveller is able to experience the journey in a more significant way. Art speaks more than a thousand words, so this is how I hope art, travel and hospitality will further work closely together to enrich one’s travel experiences.