From Tokyo Trains to Comic-Con: My Convention Journey
When I think back to my very first conventions, it amazes me how far things have come. Today, when you see me at a booth filled with towering displays, stacks of prints, and illustrated novels, it may look effortless — but my journey started with a single folding table and a very long train ride.
Growing up, we traveled and moved a lot as a family, packing our lives up into a handful of trunks to move between countries. This constant packing and unpacking has made me efficient at squeezing my life into a suitcase.
My First Convention Days
One of my earliest shows was Design Festa in Tokyo, back when I was still living in Japan. At the time, I didn’t own a car. With the help of my mom, I carried everything for my tiny 4’ x 3’ booth onto the train — a folding table, prints, display items, and all. We hauled it through stations and into downtown, then walked another stretch with bags in hand.
It was exhausting, and I’ll never forget how heavy those bags felt — but it was also exhilarating. I had a space, however small, to share my art directly with people. That experience showed me just how much I loved connecting face-to-face with others through my work.
Learning to Travel with Art
As I began attending more shows, both in Japan and later in the United States, I learned how to adapt. Suitcases turned into larger displays. I started flying to shows across the country, piecing together my booth setup in new cities. Each step was a lesson in resourcefulness — figuring out how to pack art safely, how to make my space feel welcoming, and how to represent my world in just a few square feet.
Where I Am Now
Fast forward to today, and I travel regularly to some of the biggest conventions in the world: San Diego Comic-Con, Gen Con, Dragon Con, and New York Comic Con among them. My booth has grown into a full display of prints, illustrated novels, and limited editions, designed to feel like you’re stepping into my worlds.
It’s a far cry from carrying a folding table on a Tokyo train — but I carry those early experiences with me. They remind me how important it is to connect directly with people, whether at a bustling convention or through my online store.
Closing Thoughts
Conventions have been one of the most important parts of my journey as an artist. They’ve given me opportunities to meet collectors face-to-face, share the stories behind my art, and see firsthand the joy my worlds bring to others.
From humble beginnings in Japan to traveling across the U.S. with a booth full of fantastical worlds, I’m grateful for every step — and I’m excited to see where the next convention takes me.