Bio

Bio
Profile photo of TOMOKO
T O M O K O
Creative Director / Author / Art Director / Hair & Makeup Artist

Background

After graduating from Tokyo Mode Gakuen, I studied makeup artistry, including special effects makeup, at Makeup Designory in New York, where I completed the Master program. I have participated in global fashion events such as Paris Haute Couture Collections and New York Collections. I have worked on hair and makeup, as well as visual production, for shows, events, advertisements, films, dramas, music videos, and commercials for renowned brands such as adidas, Gucci, Hermes, Mercedes Benz, and Sony.

Accolades

  • Paris Fashion Week Hair and Makeup Competition:
    Grand Prix Winner

  • Tokyo Mode Gakuen Public Expense Study Abroad System:
    Scholarship Recipient

  • IBF Photo Contest:
    Laura Mercier Award, Maybelline New York Award

  • Tokyo Mode Gakuen Internal Contests:
    Multiple Awards Received

Mental Health Art Project “Who Am I? by TOMOKO”

Started in 2018, “Who Am I? by TOMOKO” is a project that conveys the importance of mental dialogue (self-dialogue) and the value of the invisible mind through TOMOKO’s art works such as videos, photos, poems, and music. Utilizing art as a powerful tool, I communicate the importance of taking time to face oneself, promoting self-understanding and self-love. I aim to make mental health as common a topic of everyday conversation as physical health. Additionally, I seek to increase options for mental health care, such as consulting with mental health professionals, participating in counseling sessions, and joining support groups, in order to foster a community where no one has to bear pain or anxiety alone.

Main Activities and Works

  • Solo Exhibition:
    In 2021, I held my first solo exhibition, “Who Am I? by TOMOKO: What do you imagine without colors,” at America-Bashi Gallery in Ebisu, Tokyo. This exhibition featured stories of women from the ‘100 Women’ series of the “Who Am I? by TOMOKO” project, presented through poetry, video, and photography.

  • Music:
    In 2023, I released my first single, “Who Am I?” and also unveiled the music video for the same song.

  • Short Films and Short Movies:
    I have produced a total of 25 short films and short movies, such as “emotions,” “swim,” and “fly,” in both the United States and Japan, which are available on my YouTube channel.

Message

In our society, misconceptions and stigmas about mental health persist. As a result, many people have few opportunities to think about mental health in their daily lives and do not receive the appropriate support they need. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Through the “Who Am I? by TOMOKO” project, I tackle this important theme using the power of art and words. I aim to nurture a cycle of love that begins with self-love and extends to others, other living beings, and the earth. I hope to build a supportive community where many people can obtain and share appropriate mental health information. I believe this will bring positive changes to individuals and society, contributing to the realization of a richer society.

Education

Make-up Designory New York – NY
Graduated from the Master Make-up Artistry Program

Tokyo Mode Gakuen – Shinjuku
Graduated from the Make-up Department
Graduated from the Graphic Design Department