André Rios - Dear Japan

Japan in Ink Series | Original Ink Drawing

This original ink drawing is part of an ongoing series inspired by my travels through Japan. Created with archival ink pens on linen-textured paper, each piece captures a small part of the country through expressive lines and carefully observed details.

The series explores a wide range of subjects, from traditional architecture, small storefronts, and quiet streets to landscapes, everyday objects, and unexpected corners that caught my attention during my journeys. Each drawing is based on photographs and references I personally collected while travelling through Japan, reflecting my fascination with the country's culture, atmosphere, and visual character.

Rather than focusing exclusively on famous landmarks, I am particularly interested in the ordinary places and details that are often overlooked. Through these sketches, I aim to preserve small moments from my travels and share my personal perspective on Japan, celebrating the beauty and character found in everyday surroundings.

About the Artist

I am André Rios, a Portuguese award-winning artist based in the Netherlands, internationally recognised for my highly realistic pastel drawings and my work exploring the beauty of often-overlooked subjects.

My artworks have been featured in numerous international art publications, including "International Artist" and "Pratique des Arts", and have received recognition in international art competitions. I was selected as a finalist in the prestigious "Wildlife Artist of the Year" competition in both 2024 and 2026, organised by the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation.

Alongside my pastel work, I explore ink drawing as a way to document my observations and experiences. Japan has been a major source of artistic inspiration for many years, and my annual journeys to the country continue to influence my creative practice.

Through this series, I invite collectors to discover Japan from a more personal perspective, through original drawings inspired by the places, objects, and small details that make each journey memorable.