Taiko Matsuo – Artist / Illustrator

Instagram : taikomatsuo

Old and new. Liveliness and stillness. Dreams and reality. I create artworks that move gently between these contrasts, offering quiet comfort to the hearts of those who view them.

With soft, colorful palettes and a flat yet dimensional style, I love to portray landscapes, people, and animals—capturing the nostalgia and hope hidden in everyday life.

I treasure staying true to myself while embracing change with joy. Rather than letting age define me, I aim to keep painting well into my 100s, always evolving and welcoming new challenges.

Born in Kure, Hiroshima, I moved to Tokyo after working in the automotive industry, and began my career as an illustrator in 1998. Since then, I’ve illustrated over 300 book covers and created many works inspired by Japanese mythology and Shinto shrines. Using acrylic gouache, I express the idea that “we are never truly alone” through color and form.

Lately, I’ve been exploring more urban scenes and the atmosphere of modern life—creating works that resonate with younger generations. Bridging the past and present through what I call “emotional landscapes” is one of my unique strengths.

I am currently based in Tokyo, Karuizawa, and Fukui. 

< Selected solo exhibition>

2024 "Today is a gift" YUGEN Gallery FUKUOKA, Fukuoka, Japan

2024 "Love is everywhere" Shinjuku Takashimaya, Tokyo, Japan

2024 "Shining and coloring" ART SITRE 25, Fukui, Japan

2023 "Find my color" Tamagawa Takashimaya, Yokohama, Japan

2021 "TOKOWAKA" SPEAK FOR SPACE,Tokyo,Japan

2019 "in the forest" ROPPONGI Roppongi Hills,Tokyo,Japan

2012 "Books love illustration" DAIKANYAMA TSUTAYA BOOKS,Tokyo,Japan 

2011 "Layered" POLA MUSEUM ANNEX,Tokyo,Japan

2006 "Be Happy Xmas" SHIBUYA PARCO LOGOS GALLERY,Tokyo,Japan 

2002 "Flower garden" AOYAMA BOOK CENTER TOKYO,Tokyo,Japan

1998 "SCENERY" GALLERY ROCKET,Tokyo,Japan 

<Group exhibition>

2022 "ASYAAF&Hidden Artists Festival"  Seoul , Korea