Yae Takahashi

My work explores the unseen connections and the harmony of life.

Microorganisms, insects, birds, fish, animals, plants—every living thing is interconnected, shaping our Earth, which itself is just a small part of the vast universe.

From afar, the ocean may seem calm, but beneath the surface lies a vibrant world in constant motion. This hidden interplay of stories, roles, and emotions inspires my work. In my "Layer of Lives" series, I depict beings of various shapes and habitats, meeting each other's gaze and sharing quiet moments—sometimes as friends beneath a starry sky. Through these scenes, I seek to capture the beauty of coexistence and the invisible bonds that connect us all.

Patterns are a recurring motif in my work, reflecting the intricate designs of nature and the mysterious forms of the microscopic world. Having spent nearly half my life between Japan and New Zealand, I’m also influenced by the colours and patterns of traditional Japanese art, which naturally weave into my creative expression.

I primarily work with acrylic on canvas while also exploring digital art. For me, creating is about capturing what I see and feel—translating the unseen into visible forms and sharing the quiet stories that surround us.