Yokoteen

Born in Sakaide City, Japan, Yokoteen is a self-taught oil painter living and working in Tokyo. Since 2015, his Friends in Paradise series has portrayed signature characters within slow-paced scenes of coastal Americana.

In recent works, Yokoteen has focused this narrative on the tranquility of the sea, following a humanoid cat named Giovanni through the various stages of surfing. Giovanni embodies the duality of the sport, both carving through perfect barrels and quietly waiting for the next wave.

We’re delighted to present 16 new artworks by the Japanese artist, inviting us and Giovanni on a reflective journey across sea and self.

Explore the full interview and collection below.

THIS MARKS YOUR SIXTH COLLABORATION WITH 4BYSIX SINCE 2022. WHAT IS IT ABOUT THE 4BYSIX ETHOS OR APPROACH THAT KEEPS DRAWING YOU BACK TO WORK WITH THEM?

I think they are contributing to society. They are connecting the potential of art with social contribution. I am honoured to be able to work with them.

OVER TIME, COLLABORATIONS OFTEN EVOLVE. HOW HAS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH 4BYSIX CHANGED SINCE YOUR FIRST PROJECT TOGETHER, BOTH CREATIVELY AND PERSONALLY?

First it was a steel plate. Heavy, hard, wild. I’d only ever painted on canvas. It was amazing. I gained experience. And now they sent me a wagon tarpaulin. I’d never seen anything like it. It was a new challenge. I’m grateful to them for remembering me and reaching out to me.

4BYSIX’S WORK OFTEN BLENDS ART, COMMUNITY, AND PURPOSE. HOW DOES THAT ALIGN WITH YOUR OWN PHILOSOPHY AS AN ARTIST, ESPECIALLY AS SOMEONE WHO PAINTS SUCH TRANQUIL, REFLECTIVE SCENES?

Their activities contribute to society. I have never received an offer from such an organisation in Japan. In the UK, society and people are mature. That’s wonderful. I think there is a reason for everything that has been created over a long period of time.

YOUR SERIES FRIENDS IN PARADISE HAS BECOME INSTANTLY RECOGNISABLE - PARTICULARLY GIOVANNI, THE SURFING CAT. CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT HOW GIOVANNI CAME TO REPRESENT THE DUALITY OF ACTION AND STILLNESS IN YOUR WORK?

I think it’s something I’ve gained from my experiences. There have been moments that have moved me. Sometimes in silence. Loneliness. Sadness. Other times in the midst of a powerful current. Joy. Liberation. These are the memories I have. That is my life. I would be happy if people who see my work can relate to something in it.

MANY OF YOUR RECENT PIECES SIMPLIFY BOTH FORM AND FEELING, FOCUSING ON THE EMOTION OF A MOMENT RATHER THAN PHYSICAL DETAIL. WHAT INSPIRED THIS SHIFT IN YOUR PRACTICE?

I’ve never been conscious of it. I think it was a gradual process. I kept what I thought was necessary.