Tiago Mattis

Tiago began this project in hopes of highlighting the whole spectrum of cultures and peoples who live and work in Japan. By highlighting other cultures he hopes to offer Japanese audiences a more inclusive and representative view of the world around them outside the archetypal “westerner” that tends to dominate Japanese media. At the same time, he wants people of colour living in Japan to have a sense of belonging and see themselves reflected in his artwork. 

Tiago’s “Everyday greeting” illustrates the everyday kindnesses that are common throughout Japan. The shyness and awkwardness of speaking a foreign language and the joy of succeeding and making a new friend.

Mount Fuji holds a unique spiritual power and has been featured in artworks for centuries. In this piece we see the glee and elation of a first trip to the world famous landmark. His love for the country is palpable in this image; enticing us to take a trip of our own to the land of the rising sun.