Meet Up: A Collage Artwork by Kaoruko Iizuka

Expressing Peaceful Coexistence with Life

Kaoruko Iizuka, a renowned artist, finds inspiration in the grandeur, mystery, and tenderness of nature. Her latest creation, "Meet Up," is a captivating collage artwork that beautifully captures the essence of peaceful coexistence with life.

During a serene picnic on the grass, Kaoruko was surrounded by a few little birds playing harmoniously. The warmth of the sun, the comfort of the wind, and the presence of these delicate creatures touched her deeply. It was this experience that inspired her to create "Meet Up," a work that evokes the feeling of being close to nature and cherishing the beauty of life.

What sets "Meet Up" apart from other artworks is the emphasis Kaoruko places on the harmony between natural elements and the senses. Her meticulous attention to detail ensures that each piece contains plants and fruits, creating a sensory experience that goes beyond visual aesthetics. The artwork invites viewers to feel the chirping of birds, the breath of people, and the soft sunlight, fostering a sense of peaceful coexistence with the world around us.

Using her expertise in graphic design, Kaoruko brought "Meet Up" to life in Photoshop. She carefully selected vintage images and purchased plant visuals, skillfully blending them together to create a captivating composition. The artwork features a cut-out of an original image, with blurred plants in the foreground to provide depth and draw attention to the focal point. By selectively coloring only the flowers in the center, Kaoruko achieved a balanced and contrasting composition. The shadow of the plant in the image adds warmth and a sense of sunlight, enhancing the overall visual experience.

"Meet Up" is not just an artwork to be admired; it has the power to add color and meaning to someone's life. Kaoruko hopes that her creation can serve as a source of inspiration and joy for those who appreciate it. The artwork's ability to evoke emotions and create connections is a testament to Kaoruko's artistic vision and talent.

Created in Tokyo in April 2019, "Meet Up" took approximately 45 minutes to complete. Kaoruko's extensive collection of royalty-free, public domain artworks served as the foundation for this collage. While no direct inspiration was taken from other artists, Kaoruko's observations of nature and its coexistence with humanity guided her in selecting and assembling the appropriate visuals.

The creation of "Meet Up" presented its own set of challenges. While it may appear effortless at first glance, achieving the perfect balance between color, geometry, and negative space required meticulous planning and organization. Kaoruko's careful consideration of these elements ensured that the artwork resonates with viewers on a deeper level.

Recognized for its exceptional design, "Meet Up" was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category in 2022. This prestigious accolade is a testament to the artwork's well-designed, practical, and innovative qualities, meeting professional and industrial standards. "Meet Up" integrates industry best practices and showcases competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive emotions, ultimately contributing to a better world.