The bonsai tree is the perfect representation of how being unique is truly beautiful.  By carefully and patiently crafting yourself to be authentic, you don’t blend into the background.  You grow into an eclectic, inspirational soul.

I love painting bonsai trees because I don’t care too much about ‘fitting in’ or ‘following the crowd’.  This was especially obvious in my high school years.  I was called a freak quite a few times, was constantly made fun of the way I looked and dressed, got my head smashed into a locker (and locked in a locker once) and people had trouble categorizing me into a group or ‘click’.

Even though I felt misunderstood and my heart was aching for a good 6 years, I knew that someday I’d look back and think, “This is ridiculous”.  So, I kept on learning how to be my own person no matter the criticism, the rumors, and the betrayal of friends.

I was preparing myself to be who I am, no matter the cost.

And, here I am.  Happy.

Uniquely, Soniei.

Here’s a video of me, Soniei, trying to explain the evolution and inspiration behind my contemporary Japanese art, canvas art, and art prints.

This video includes a brief explanation of how I left the 9-5 work world to live my dream as a full-time artist.