During my recent visit to Japan, I explored several local trade shows. Among them, "Value Books," a used bookstore nestled in Ueda City, immediately captured my attention. Operating both online and in store, they embark on a mission to breathe new life into used books. Since 2007, Value Books has moved beyond selling books; it transforms unpriced ones into everyday products, continuously adding value to what others might discard.
Imagine this: Every day, Value Books receives a staggering 20,000 books from all corners of Japan. The twist? About half of them, couldn't be priced and were destined for waste paper collection. Recognizing the environmental impact, Value Books turned the challenge into an opportunity by collaborating with partners to give these unused books a fresh start.
The "Notebook that was a Book" project began with the aim of preserving the essence of books; it encourages users to contemplate the value these books hold. The raw material for each notebook, the "paper that used to be a book," contains fragments hinting at its previous life as a comic, magazine, or poetry book. It serves as a reminder of the cycle of life, enabling each piece to narrate its story before embarking on a new chapter.
But their story doesn't end there. Later, I discovered their mobile bookstore, the "Book Bus" where 1,000 books at a time rolling into local communities, parks, and spots where little bookworms can immerse themselves in the joy of reading. This isn't merely a bookstore on wheels; it's a new approach to delivering knowledge and nurturing community. The profound value goes beyond the wheels; it's a belief in delivering these treasures to areas where they're needed the most.
Apart from these two initiatives, Value Books has developed various programs that are making a significant impact locally. Their dedication to purpose-driven efforts has touched my heart. They have shown me that incredible things can happen when businesses are guided by a strong sense of purpose.
Just like every repurposed book, each person has the potential to start a new chapter, contributing meaningfully to the world around us.
See you next time.
Sherry, Founder & CEO of Cantoo City
Source: www.valuebooks.jp; IG@valuebooks_press
Don't miss out on the opportunity to share your story with us. We'd love to hear you! Drop us a message or comment below to share your journey with our community.
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Frequently, business travels connect us with remarkable individuals. This month, we've had the pleasure of meeting Sakurai Miyuki, a young designer and emerging artist from Tokyo, Japan. Miss Miyuki is our featured guest of the month.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am Sakurai Miyuki, a native of Tokyo, Japan. My journey began in childhood with a passion for drawing and a particular interest in Manga. Initially aspiring to be a fashion designer during my elementary school years, I later delved into oil painting, majoring in it at Art School. Post-graduation, I embarked on a journey into freelance work, showcasing and selling my works at various events. It's been quite an adventure.
What style of art do you specialize in?
My expertise lies in creating oil and watercolour paintings that convey a fantastical narrative. My process involves allowing the canvas to capture the essence of the moment, drawing inspiration from my favorite elements. My illustrations are rooted in childhood memories and experiences.
What really gets your creative juices flowing?
Animated cartoons, particularly those from Ghibli and Disney, have significantly influenced me. Despite being raised in an urban environment, I have a real love for nature, which often finds its way into my work. It's like blending a touch of the great outdoors into the cityscape of my canvas!
What tools do you always have on hand for your art? Any go-to brush, paint, or technique you love?
I'm all about using both oil paint and crayon. Crayons bring in that cool textured, hand-drawn vibe that I truly love. Playing around with unexpected shapes and colours – it keeps things interesting.
Got any cool fun facts about yourself?
I'm always jamming out to music while I'm in the creative zone. I draw inspiration from all sorts of genres. Every now and then, a specific song totally captures me, and its vibe becomes the fuel for my work.
Looking ahead five years, where do you see yourself?
I'm dreaming of setting up a cozy cafe and art studio in an old house surrounded by trees. Just imagine the sound of birds and a view of a wooded area, creating the perfect vibe. Oh, and I can't forget my border collie and cat – they'll be right there with me, adding to the creative energy 💕
If you could be any animal, what's your pick and why?
I'd go with an eagle or falcon – their majestic flight is just too cool. Imagine soaring gracefully through the sky, checking out distant landscapes with those sharp eyes. That's the dream!
And there you have it – a glimpse into the imaginative world of Sakurai. We can't wait to visit her cozy cafe and studio surrounded by nature next time. Thank you, Sakurai, for sharing your art and dreams with the community. Here's to hoping your dreams come true!
https://pockethoheto.wixsite.com/sakurai-miyuki
Follow Sakurai on Instagram @hoheto1022 or visit her website to show your support.
For inquiries about our blog, please feel free to send a message to social@cantoocity.com
Late October, in Starbucks, Caterina sat quietly in the corner, sparking my curiosity. Little did I know, a creative mind was at play. Meet Caterina Sauro—a young artist, community builder, and entrepreneur from Mississauga, Ontario. Blending visual art and literature, Caterina's journey unfolds—from self-publishing book "Hi, My Name is Monella" to founding @exproseyourself. Join us to discover how Caterina's passion creates a story that goes beyond the usual.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I’m a multi-disciplinary artist who loves storytelling through visual art and literature. Throughout every stage of life, I remain a creative individual. As I’ve aged and grown into adulthood, my desire to create art has grown into a dream of creating spaces and experiences where others can make art in community.
My favourite outlet as of recently has been creating digital illustrations. The ability to pick colours, brushes, and manipulate layers with precision gets me excited. It's also environmentally-friendly and takes up way less space in my apartment. When I want to write, I either write poetry or come up with silly stories. I was recently able to combine my two loves into one passion project when I self-published my book of poetry and illustrations, "Hi, My Name is Monella" in 2022. When I'm not creating, or brainstorming for my next project, I am cuddling with my cat Benedict, bingeing sit-coms from the 90s until bedtime.
What type of art do you specialize in or enjoy creating?
My style varies piece to piece, although, as I've noticed consistencies in the pieces of mine that shine brightest, I'd have to say that I specialise in pieces that include nature, including florals, or food. It's important to note that pieces celebrating architecture and animals are tied for second.
What are your thoughts on digital art vs. traditional art? What are the pros and cons of each medium based on your experience?
The comparison of digital art to traditional art is a difficult one to navigate as they are both incredibly valuable to the evolution of art and how we make it. We see art in museums on ancient pottery, portraits for dignitaries, and scenes celebrating religion from centuries ago across the hall from contemporary expressionism using digital art and other multimedia. There is more than enough room for both.
With digital art, you are able to truly create anywhere and at any time. You are also able to edit, undo, and refine your pieces as much as you like. Colour palette matching is a fave. On the flip side, you can always count on tech to crash so constant saving needs to be prioritised.
Traditional art offers a completely different experience. Mixing paints, holding the paintbrush, and feeling the texture of the canvas against brush bristles is the pro of all pros. Yes, it's expensive. Yes, it takes up a lot of space. Yes, it's messy, but if you can make it work it's so worth it.
There's a level of connection between artist and art with traditional outlets that digital lacks, but the environmental and anti-clutter lifestyle digital offers balances both methods. Do what you need to do, as long as you create.
Reflecting on your journey, can you share the details of the most challenging painting you've ever created and the reasons behind its difficulty?
The most challenging painting I’ve ever created was a portrait of a family member. I tried so hard to make it look perfect, but my constant editing ended up making the piece unusable. This piece taught me that my work may not always be perfect, but if it’s complete then that is enough.
Who has had a profound impact on you or has been a source of inspiration in shaping your identity?
There is an artist out in the world named Reyna Noriega. She is a digital illustrator who has grown into an incredible artist with a portfolio that speaks for itself. She showed me that the best thing you can do for yourself and your work is to just do it. Do it for you; the rest will come.
What art movement resonates with you the most, and how does it influence or inspire your work?
Post-impressionism is my favourite art movement. Van Gogh’s work, specifically, influences my approach to layering colours, and his brush strokes are what inspire me to continue creating traditional art.
As the founder of @exproseyourself, could you provide some insights into the purpose and essence of this group?
During a time when most of the world was at home, I found myself in virtual meetings with other poets, writing together and then sharing what we wrote. As we all grew more comfortable with leaving our homes, these meetings happened less and less and I missed the virtual community. Through Exprose, those of the local writing community within Mississauga have a location where they can come to write surrounded by others who are also excited to write about the same thing; the featured poet’s work. There is a symbiotic sharing and receiving that happens in this space, and that is exactly what I wanted to happen.
If you could inhabit the life of any animal on Earth, which one would you choose and why?
I would love to be the beloved family dog in a suburban home. They get the most love out of any other animal I’ve ever seen.
Are there any fun facts about yourself that you'd like to share with the community?
When I’m not creating, I’m playing video games and learning how to code. Having a wide range of interests is important!
As we conclude Caterina's interview, I truly appreciate her diverse talent—from self-publishing a book to the community group @exproseyourself, she seamlessly blends creativity into every venture. Visit her website and follow her on IG to learn more. Your support not only acknowledges her talent but also contributes to the journey she embarks on. See you next time!
Follow Caterina on Instagram @cat.sauro or visit her website at monella.ca You can also reach out to her directly at caterinasauro3@gmail.com
For any inquiries about our blog, please feel free to send a message to social@cantoocity.com
We believe that the sharing of expressions lies at the heart of a thriving community. As a key contributor to “Creator’s Square”, we are delighted to welcome Manitoba-based part-time artist, Denee Johnson, to share her creative journey with us this month.
Could you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Denee Johnson, and I am a part-time independent, self-taught artist based in Northern Manitoba. I began my creative journey in early 2019, gradually making it the primary focus of my evenings by 2021. While I mostly work with acrylics, I also explore watercolours and oil pastels. My art aims to promote body positivity and encourage positive self-worth, intending to bring happiness to my audience. When I discovered art, I was dealing with challenges related to self-confidence, anxiety and depression. I channeled these emotions into powerful poses, complemented by bold and vibrant colours.
What aspect of being an artist excites you the most?
To me, the most exciting thing about being an artist is the paint itself, as wired as that may sound. I have found solace in the space I've created for myself, a small studio space in my basement. It's my time to dance, laugh, cry…I use the paint as a vessel for those emotions. I don't even need to paint anything cohesive, just a brush in hand and paint instantly uplifts my mood.
Could you share the backstory of your favorite creation and why it's important to you?
My favorite piece to date (although they can all be considered favorites) would have to be a piece I completed in late 2021 and early 2022, titled 'Weed and Water,' on a repurposed canvas. It embodies a powerful, bold, and carefree spirit—something that every person should aspire to. It brings me so much joy to create and just throw paint around. I get lost in the process, and as a bonus, it's heartwarming to witness others embracing their own uniqueness and loving themselves for who they are.
What are the main challenges you face as an artist today?
As an artist, my major challenges, in addition to mastering anatomical proportions, revolve around time. Being a part-time artist, I often find it difficult to stick to a specific piece due to the limited time frame I have for creating. This results in having numerous unfinished pieces for various reasons.
What impact would you like your art to have on others?
I aim for my art and its journey to resonate with viewers and eventually collectors, that you are powerful in every right and every season of your life. Your body is your own, your journey is your own. My first passion is promoting body positivity/neutrality & to be comfortable, dare it be. Proud of the skin you are in.
Thanks, Denee, for opening up and sharing your story with our community. Denee's journey shows the transformative power of art. If you've been inspired, it's time to show your support by sending her your appreciation. We look forward to seeing you next time.
Follow Deene on Instagram @deeds.bydee or visit her website at www.deetsbydee.com
For any inquiries about our blog, please feel free to send a message to social@cantoocity.com
As early fall sets in, we're at the local coffee shop, delving into the story of our guest, Paul Cocker. Hailing from Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, Paul is known for his pen and ink illustrations. Join us as we explore the world of art through Paul's unique perspective.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Certainly! I'm Paul Cocker, an art hobbyist from Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. As a kid, art was my favorite class in elementary and junior high school. I was always doodling and cartooning whenever there was paper nearby. However, once I entered high school, other interests took over. It wasn't until about a 30-year break from art that I returned to the drawing board and rekindled my passion for illustration. I've been actively sharing my art online for the past 4 years now.
Could you provide insight into your artistic style, and what are the central themes or motifs that often appear in your artwork?
I'd describe my artistic style as pen and ink illustration with a preference for black and white. I love experimenting with different pens to create varying line weights and applying cross-hatching for texture, shading, and depth in my work. Most of my artwork draws inspiration from my love for comic books, caricature art, and the world of horror movies.
Is there a particular experience that played a major role in shaping your choice to pursue art as a passion?
There wasn't a specific moment when I consciously decided to make art my hobby again; it was more of a subconscious or even unconscious impulse. There's something zen-like and cathartic about spending time drawing cartoons and doodling. It also provides me with a sense of accomplishment when I translate my thoughts into tangible images. Often, what I end up scribbling on a blank piece of paper isn't precisely what I had in mind, but going through the motions always relaxes me. Even during my art hiatus, I would occasionally doodle, so I suppose the urge to draw never truly faded. All in all, I simply enjoy the process of drawing, and that's what influences me the most.
Could you share the stories behind a few of your favorite art pieces and explain why they hold special meaning for you?
I don't have one favorite piece, but there are some that mean a lot to me. Take, for instance, my Howard the Duck illustration. It's where I fell in love with cross-hatching, discovering how to make countless lines and ticks appear 3-dimensional and textured. Similarly, a hooded hag piece I created for an art challenge three Octobers ago impresses me. Balancing it alongside my full-time job, I marveled at how well it turned out. Recently, I embarked on a series of frog sketches for an August art challenge called #frogust. Straying from my usual black and white due to partial color blindness, I opted for BiC 4-Colour ballpoint pens, embracing the uncertainty. It was liberating and fun. Even a simple mouse sketch is meaningful to me. I produced it from a random scribble in my sketchbook, a creative exercise that I find both enjoyable and rewarding.
Have you ever faced creative blocks or periods of self-doubt in your journey? How did you overcome them?
Creative blocks are a common experience for artists. When I encounter one, I change gears. Doodling, revisiting old drawings, or even experimenting with coloring books helps. If I hit a snag in a drawing, I persevere. It's gratifying to draw my way out of a challenge, even if the result differs from my initial plan.
What brings you the most joy as a hobby artist?
I've never really given something like that much thought. I like sharing my art on social media so that folks can see that art can be a fun pastime and that you can progress over time. I like seeing how I've progressed over time.
Are there any fun or interesting facts about you that you'd like to share with the community?
Besides my passion for art, being color blind adds a unique twist to my journey. Another interesting tidbit is that I'm an identical twin, each of us with our own distinct skills and talents.
Paul's story reminds us that creativity is endless, and art can play a big role in our lives. Now, it's your turn to share his story with your pals and spread the word about our community and the inspiring stories within it. Let's celebrate the creativity and joy that art has brought to our lives. See you next time :)
Follow Paul on Instagram @pisceanpaul, linktr.ee/pisceanpaul to see more of his creations.
For any inquiries about our blog, please feel free to send a message to social@cantoocity.com
This month, we're delighted to introduce you to Kate Stavniichuk – an artist born in Ukraine, now calling Canada her home. Kate's artistic journey ignited at a young age, fueled by her passion for art. Despite facing resource constraints, she embarked on a self-taught journey, crafting captivating works that have garnered global recognition.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am a professional artist originally born in a small town in Ukraine, residing and working in Canada now. I discovered an interest and natural ability to create art at a young age but lacked the resources for formal lessons and art supplies. Starting as a self-taught artist, I honed and developed my skills to the point where my works started to gain international acclaim and demand from art collectors around the world. At the age of 12, I began showing in galleries and participating in international contests, winning numerous awards and prizes. When I was 21, I ventured from my homeland in Ukraine and started to work professionally as an artist throughout the United States and Europe. By 24 I had my first solo exhibition “Wild Passion”.
When did you start creating artworks?
I began creating art at a very young age, around 5-6 years old. It was a challenging time for my family back then as my parents couldn't afford many toys. So, I turned to my imagination, crafting stories on sheets of paper and sketching people and animals as substitutes for dolls. This passion continued to grow with each passing year. By the time I reached around 12 years old, I began participating in local exhibitions, sharing my art with more people. While I primarily used graphite and colored pencils, I also experimented with watercolors and gouache paints. Unfortunately, I still couldn't afford oil paints or brushes to create the art I envisioned. Formal art classes were also financially out of reach. Without internet access during that time, I was self-taught, learning from my mistakes and relying on intuition. Somehow, I developed a unique approach to using pencils and paints. I'll never forget the day I completed my first oil painting; my mom had tears in her eyes, unable to believe I had accomplished it, wondering how it was even possible because I had never received formal art education.
How would you describe your art style?
My artistic style primarily revolves around realism, occasionally leaning into hyperrealism while weaving in elements of surrealism. I love to create something that has a deep meaning. I like to ask the viewers who’re looking at my artworks, “What do you see with your mind’s eye?”. If you think about reality philosophically and scientifically, you realize that reality is an illusion that we live in. Everyone has their own reality, thus there are many answers to what reality should be like. As a spiritual individual, I enjoy exploring this concept through various artistic avenues.
Can you share the story behind your favorite piece of art, and why is it significant to you?
It’s really difficult to choose a favorite piece, but I'll tell you the story behind my recent oil painting, “Angel in the City”. The idea for this artwork first came to me while I was living in New York City in 2016. It was a somewhat lonely time, and I was facing personal challenges. I found solace in exploring the city on my own, observing the hustle and bustle of people, cars, and busy streets. It struck me how we often fail to notice the beauty and magic amidst the chaos of life, right before our eyes. It took me 6 years to fully develop the idea into an actual image that turned into art. I don’t want to tell you what the secret meaning behind this piece, I will let the viewers see themselves and then I’d be happy to discuss it with them.
Who are your biggest influences, and how have your life experiences shaped your creative process?
I am very grateful for all my life experiences and struggles because they shaped me into who I am now as an artist, and they continue to change me in a certain way. Whether it's been personal or global events like the war in Ukraine, these experiences have emboldened my creative process. I don't limit myself with techniques or styles as much as I used to. Pain allowed me to venture into artistic visions I had been afraid to confront previously. When it comes to influences, I find it challenging to name specific individuals, as I've largely been self-driven throughout my life, pushing myself to persevere and never give up on my creative journey.
How do you maintain motivation when working on challenging projects?
I'll be honest; there are times when staying motivated or inspired is incredibly tough, especially during difficult periods. What keeps me going is the reminder that if I stop, I'll never discover what I could achieve. I focus on pushing through the challenges, even though it's not always easy. It's about maintaining resilience and staying committed to my goals, regardless of the obstacles.
Reflecting back, what advice would you give to your younger self?
I'd advise my younger self to be more flexible with people and less emotional. Because it was always hard to me to hear from people, especially close ones that I could never make it, or I needed to get a real job and forget about my passion. Now that I've learned to persevere and stay focused, I use them as fuel to keep pushing forward, sometimes embracing tasks I may not love. Because in the end, I get the results that I have always dreamed about.
Lastly, what brings you joy as an artist?
When I know that my art pieces or art commissions changed someone’s life or just made someone happy brings me the greatest joy ever. Sometimes, one simple artwork can mean the world to a person and it’s an unbelievable feeling that you were a part of it.
Kate has carved out a unique path, extending an invitation to see the world through her eyes. If her story resonates with you or her art touches your soul, please don't hesitate to reach out. In our community, connecting with one another and sharing personal stories can be a profoundly meaningful experience.
To learn more about Kate, you can email her at info@katestavniichuk.com or visit her website www.katestavniichuk.com
If you have any questions about our blog, please feel free to send a message to social@cantoocity.com
