The work of Ryota Matsumoto explore a hybrid drawing technique combining both traditional media (ink, acrylic, and graphite) and digital media (algorithmic processing, scripting and image compositing with custom software ). His drawings develop and demonstrate the hybrid/multi-layered process where varying scale, juxtaposition of different forms, intertwined textures/tones are applied to reinvent and question the spatial conditions of architectural drawings.
KALTBLUT: Who are you, where are you from and what do you do?
Ryota: I am a principal of Ryota Matsumoto Studio based in Tokyo. I work as an artist, designer, urban planner, and theorist. I was born in Japan, but spent most of my childhood in Hong Kong.
KALTBLUT: Could you tell us, what is your artistic background?
Ryota:I received Master of Architecture from University of Pennsylvania in 2007 after studying at Architectural Association in London and Mackintosh School of Architecture, Glasgow School of Art in 90’s. During my undergraduate study, I acquired the basic drawing skills. I also took courses on modern Art History around the same time. I only got to know about all the digital techniques like generative art and parametric design much later…during my graduate study.
KALTBLUT: Why did you chose the creative path that you are on?
Ryota: I’d like to produce artworks that reflect my twenty years of experience in the field of architecture. Hopefully, it allows me to establish my own technique and distinctive viewpoint.
KALTBLUT: How is your working process?
Ryota: I develop and explore a hybrid drawing technique combining both traditional media (ink, acrylic, and graphite) and digital media (algorithmic processing, scripting and image compositing with custom software ).
KALTBLUT: Your work seems really “noisy” to me. Is there any relation between your images and the idea of having some sound in it?
Ryota: My work is certainly inspired by my penchant for sound art, early electric music and electroacoustic compositions.
KALTBLUT: What inspires you the most for your creation?
Ryota: Music, urban landscape, books as well as any structural/organic forms
KALTBLUT: Do you have any mentor, artist that inspires you?
Ryota: It is hard for me to come up with any specific persons off hand, but I am always inspired by people who work in different disciplines.
KALTBLUT: What are you working on at the moment?
Ryota: I am working on a new piece of work right now.
Interview by Nicolas Simoneau
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