Etsuko Kaji-Holley

Etsuko was born in Tokyo, Japan; One of the busiest cities in the world. Her parents encouraged her, at a very young age to practice ballet, piano and painting. She remembers painting, with youthful eagerness, a pomegranate still life. She continued to take art classes in school and studied English Lit & Western Fine Art in University. She also enjoyed Japanese traditional arts, such as Ikebana and Tea-ceremony for many years.   She also had the opportunity to work at Kobayashi Art Gallery in Ginza, Tokyo, where she was surrounded by world known fine arts and artists. Her most favorite time is to visit art /historical museums and galleries anywhere in the world to admire master pieces.

After being in a highly competitive corporate environment in Vancouver, Etsuko and her husband live on Vancouver Island. She is constantly inspired by the natures and by the wonderful people who encourage and admire her works. She also teaches yoga in the community and enjoy expresses herself on the canvas and on the yoga mat. Etsuko has taken multiple workshops and continues to explore new styles and techniques. She is deeply grateful for the loving support of her family, friends, and the community.

My inspirations come from nature, organic shapes, feelings & memories from the past. I can see my brush strokes are influenced by the long-term practice of Japanese calligraphy & the compositions from the previous Ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement) practices. My joy and passion to paint originates from the flow of internal & external energy (Ki).