Shark Man

Hiroshi Sugito

Hiroshi Sugito’s compositions are comprised of both abstract and concrete recurring motifs, often stylized beyond immediate recognition. For example, his paintings feature mountaintops, waves, blossoms, birds, military airplanes, missiles, fire, windows, and especially curtains; these are not used to convey conventional narrative, but rather as pictorial elements. In other works, Sugito creates alternate visualizations, for example, of sounds or nature. Sugito’s work is also known for its use of translucent layers—an effect he achieves by layering acrylic paint and dry pigment—lack of linear perspective, and generous use of empty space. Though he is deeply affected by traditions of western painting, Sugito is strongly influenced by his training in traditional Japanese painting techniques. More recently, the artist has begun to experiment with three-dimensional media.