tomoo gokita

interview

by OLIVIER ZAHM

portrait

by CHIKASHI SUZUKI

 

Tomoo Gokita’s paintings draw inspiration from Japanese subcultural references — vintage magazines, film stills, adult publications, and found images — transforming them into a symbolic and enigmatic visual language that deconstructs identity and narcissism.

 

OLIVIER ZAHM — Would you agree that your paintings smile at us ironically?

TOMOO GOKITA — I completely agree. I want people to laugh all the time.

OLIVIER ZAHM — Are painted people more interesting to you than real people?

TOMOO GOKITA — I think real people are crazier and more dangerous.

OLIVIER ZAHM — Do you like French Surrealists? 

TOMOO GOKITA — I’m not particularly interested in Surrealism, but I find it interesting that so many people point out the similarities with my work.

OLIVIER ZAHM — Do you collect vintage comics and magazines?

TOMOO GOKITA — Ten years ago, I stopped buying magazines…