New York-based artist Yura Osborn has one intention for her artwork: to whack a big toothy smile across our dials. And browsing through her sweet illustrations, watercolours and collages, it's fair to say she's succeeded with that mission.

We had a chat with Yura about her cross-cultural influences, inspiration on the go, and the importance of slowing down once in a while.



What is your name and how old are you? My name is Yura Osborn and I'm 28 years old.

How does where you live affect your art? My art is a reflection of what I see and who I meet! I was born and raised in Tokyo, and moved to New York in 2005 to attend the School of Visual Arts. Every summer since I've been in the States, I visit my family and friends in Japan. My parents live in a small beachside community, and when I'm there I'm inspired by the ocean and the natural beauty. On the other hand, my stimulation in NY comes from the people and the energy of the city. I feel fortunate to be able to experience these two unique cultures!



How did you get started with this medium? After graduating from college, I started painting with watercolours. I like how it doesn't require much space and can be taken with me. It's my portable studio. I particularly enjoy painting in cafes and parks. Never knowing when or where I'll be inspired, I always try to carry my things with me. I also love the delicate tones that I get with watercolours. It seems to fit the way I want to express myself at this moment.

Is there a running theme to the work you create, or do you just make whatever comes to mind? HAPPY ART! I like to make people smile and feel happy. Slowing down and looking at what's happening in my daily life helps me get in touch with the wonder and excitement that a child feels. Many people are living in difficult situations, but if I can share a smile with them, hopefully this seed will begin to grow.

What makes your work unique and truly your own? I was born and raised in Tokyo by an American father and Japanese mother. Both of my parents work in creative fields, so art has always been a part of my life. Growing up in a multicultural background, art has been a way to express and find solutions, my own special language for communicating.



Tell us a little about your creative process. I love drawing patterns. It's a slow and soothing process, like mediation. My mind becomes empty and it helps me get ready to work. Sometimes I also get interesting ideas from what I've done.

What kinds of ideas and things are you working on at the moment? It's autumn in New York! I'm looking at the beautiful fall colours and wanting to work on a happy leaves series! I would like to take this idea and complete it as textiles and sewn objects.

What do you wish you knew about being an artist before you got started? I wished I had understood that promotion and making business are part of the creative process of being an artist.



What is the strangest thing or thought that has inspired a piece of work? This summer, I was collecting pieces of driftwood, rocks and shells as I walked along the beach. I was thinking about how to do drawings for a children's book I was illustrating. Suddenly I started seeing fish, birds and seahorses in the treasures I found. I photographed them and completed the process by combining them with acrylic painting.

Are there any other mediums that you'd like to experiment with? I like creating with my hands, but if I can integrate it with new technologies, I feel I will find more possibilities. I'd love to do textile design and make things with the fabric. I'm also looking to do more ceramics!

What would you be doing if you weren't making art? I've always LOVED drawing and can't imagine doing anything else, but with a creative mind, you can make art in any field. I'd like to open a cafe someday. I'd do everything from creating plates/cups, decorations for the table, growing vegetables, interior design, and the menu. It would be a place that could be used in many ways; exhibitions, movies, concerts, workshops... Somewhere to hang out and enjoy relaxing time with friends and family!



Where can we see more of your work? My website or on Instagram at @yuraosborn.