The Art Journal that begins here is an attempt to lay out my past work, current endeavors, and future prospects like a blueprint. At the center is the character "GONNYS," but the purpose is not just to introduce the character. It will connect with my art as a whole and reveal where I am heading. I hope that together we can shape the future of this brand.

Why was GONNYS born? Searching for "helpful pictures"

When I wasn't interested in the characters

To be honest, for a long time I wasn't attracted to "drawing characters." The process of shaping them, giving them expressions, and even giving them names seemed somewhat artificial to me. So I never felt like I wanted to "create" characters.

A turning point: one word

It was the words of a certain artist that quietly shook my attitude.

"Art should help people in times of need. It should save people in times of trouble."

I didn't decide to draw a character the moment I heard those words. However, as I ruminated on their meaning, the role of expression gradually took on a different profile. It occurred to me that it would be good to have a painting that is not just enjoyable to look at, but also a presence that can comfort you like a handrail for your heart.

The role that came before the form

This realization slowly loosened the resistance within me. The first question I had was not "what to draw" but "why to draw." When I was in a difficult situation, just seeing it by chance was enough to release the tension in my shoulders. It was a light-hearted ally that I could have in my daily life.

Gonise appeared as if she were flowing naturally into the vessel of this "role."

Gonnies: A "Handrail"

Gonise's work is not perfect. It sometimes has a silly expression and leaves a lot of space, allowing each viewer's own mood and story to shine through. I think of this space as a small bridge between consciousnesses, softening the boundaries and allowing a gentle breath to pass from one side to the other.

As a record of the beginning

Looking back, when I let go of my assumption that I wouldn't draw characters, my expression began to slide into new territory. Goniz is a witness to this inner transformation.

This is the origin story of the character "Gonise." Thank you for reading.

— Next episode preview —

Next time, we'll be looking at the story behind the birth of Nikoipi, the predecessor to Gonny's. Why it was created, what role it played, and how it became Gonny's - we'll follow along with early sketches.