ARTIST OF THE DAY: 

YUKA YASUTOMI

Where are you from?: 

I am originally from Japan, currently living in Los Angeles, California,

Tell us about yourself, your passions, your studies, accomplishments: 

I am a fashion illustrator and live sketch artist in Los Angeles, CA. Growing up in Japan, I developed an interest in drawing, fashion, and beauty, likely inspired by my mother, who owns a beauty company. Since I was young, I’ve found joy in illustrating with pen and paper—it’s something that has always made me feel genuinely happy. My journey began naturally, as a hobby, while I developed my skills over the years. I’ve always loved drawing female figures, which led to my passion for fashion illustration.

There was a period when I stepped away from art. After graduating from university in Japan with a degree in English Literature, I moved to Los Angeles to study graphic design. With a love for creating visuals, I began working as a graphic designer for various renowned fashion and beauty brands. My years in design provided a strong foundation in composition, color, and brand identity—skills that continue to enrich my work in illustration, allowing me to create visuals that align with clients’ needs and capture each brand’s essence. However, I eventually felt drawn back to my true passion, and I chose to pursue fashion illustration professionally. I took additional classes to strengthen my fundamentals, combining new techniques with the unique style I had developed over the years.

My style is best described as feminine, elegant, and stylish, characterized by a delicate and refined touch. I work primarily with watercolor, ink, and mixed media. Since beginning my journey as an illustrator in 2018, I’ve collaborated with a diverse range of brands on projects for magazines, packaging, editorials, consumer products, and retail campaigns across the fashion, beauty, and lifestyle industries worldwide.

In addition to my studio work, I work as a live sketch artist, creating a personal and memorable experience for high-end brand events. I’ve had the honor of collaborating live with brands such as MIU MIU, Giorgio Armani, Brunello Cucinelli, and Nordstrom, as well as at corporate parties, press launches, brand activations, and weddings. My live illustrations elevate the event experience, creating elegant, stylish portraits that capture each guest’s unique beauty while enhancing brands’ engagement with their customers and building lasting connections.

I’ve also exhibited in Los Angeles, CA, and Japan and plan to expand my shows further. Additionally, I run an online shop featuring my art across various products, including art prints, cards, stationery, phone cases, tote bags, and more.

When did you start to design illustrations?: 

2018 for professional illustrations

What inspires you?: 

Fashion, Beauty, Travel, Nature especially flowers, Everything in daily life

What are your future goals?: 

My future goals include continuing to express the beauty of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle through my illustrations, bringing joy and inspiration to people as they embrace the beauty in everyday life. I also aspire to keep collaborating with a diverse range of global high-end brands and clients, publishing a style book with my illustrations, and presenting my artwork in exhibitions, connecting with and inspiring people around the world.

Where can people find you or contact you?:

WEBSITE: https://www.yukayasutomi.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yukayasutomi99/