As Ki Niseko opens its doors this May, a collection of works that vividly capture the landscapes of Niseko is here to welcome every guest. Through the end of July, the Ki Gallery is graced by Naomi Mizukami, an artist active across her home region of Hokkaido. Here in Niseko, where the crisp summer breeze drifts through, why not take a moment to immerse yourself in the free and vivid world that Naomi paints?
Naomi began her career in Sapporo in 2008, and her move to Kutchan in 2013 drew her into the world of landscape painting, capturing the area's magnificent nature. With Mt. Yotei at the heart of her work, she continues to portray the spirit of this land through a fresh, vivid sensibility. Locally, she devotes herself to sharing the joy of painting, including running the "colorful sketch" class. From 2026 she is exhibiting at Ki Niseko's "Ki Gallery," where her warm, expressive brushwork has captivated guests from Japan and abroad. This spring she held a successful solo exhibition in Kuriyama, and the range of her expression continues to grow to this day.
Naomi's creative process begins by surrendering sensibility and painting freely from the heart without preliminary sketches. Her vivid brushwork is rendered in water-resistant pen; a mark of permanence where every slight distortions and stroke within it become precious treasures of irreplaceable uniquity, imbued into each viewer's conscious memory.
The sentiment of individuality reaches out to us through her work as a warm dialogue that transcends words. Whether in her classes, solo exhibitions, or with brush in hand at the roadside, what she treasures most is the connection with people who can share in the things they love. Listen closely as you gaze upon the art that adorn the walls of Ki Gallery, and let the message she sends speak to you innately.
The exhibition coincides with Kutchan's celebrated harbinger of spring, Mishima-San's Shibazakura garden's full bloom.
On display are Naomi's sketches, which gently link real landscapes with the memories of those who have gazed upon them. We invite you to enjoy overlaying the vivid colors before your eyes with the world of works framed by her sensibility.
You will find her collaboration with local patissier Momoko Kimura, Niseko Cookie Tin, and other original items featuring Naomi's fresh and vivid designs available at the Ki Gift Shop across from the gallery.
The fragments of landscape brought to life through Naomi's sensibility breathe new life into familiar scenery. When you visit Ki Niseko, we hope you'll enjoy a dialogue with the "memories of Niseko" captured by her eye.
Exhibition period: Saturday 23 May 2026, 3:00 PM – Monday 27 July 2026
Admission is free for everyone.
