Me, Live drawing
My very first customer
My first live illustration event in Tokyo happened just a few months after my very first exhibition in the city, though it came years after I had started drawing regularly at home. At the time, I was still finding my place as an illustrator in Japan and never imagined that I would be drawing live portraits in front of an audience so soon.
Toki-san, the owner of TOKIS, invited me to host a live illustration event where I would draw portraits of guests in real time. When I first received the invitation, my immediate reaction was fear.
I had been drawing alone at home for many years, but was I good enough to work under the pressure of clients watching me live? Could I really draw in front of people? What if someone didn’t like their portrait? What if no one showed up?
I honestly doubted my ability to draw people quickly while being watched. At the same time, I felt a strong desire to challenge myself. I practiced as much as possible and decided to accept the opportunity.
When the day of the event arrived, something unexpected happened. I was able to draw everyone successfully. Even more surprising were the kind and encouraging comments I received from the guests. The number of people who attended exceeded all my expectations. I was fully booked on both days and even had to take additional portrait orders home after the event.
That experience marked a turning point for me. It was the moment I realized that live illustration in Tokyo was not only possible for me, but something I truly loved doing.
What This Experience Taught Me About Becoming an Illustrator in Japan
People often ask me how it’s possible to become an illustrator in Japan, especially as a foreign artist. While every path is different, my first live illustration event taught me several important lessons.
1. You don’t need to feel “ready” to start
I didn’t feel ready when I accepted my first live illustration job in Tokyo. Self-doubt is very common, especially when working in a new country. What matters is being willing to prepare seriously and take opportunities when they appear. With regular practice, confidence and skill naturally grow, and those are what you rely on during the event.
2. Small opportunities can lead to big turning points
This event came from a personal connection, someone who already knew my work ethic through previous projects. It was a small venue, not a large brand or agency, but it also gave me more freedom. In Japan, many illustration opportunities begin through trust, relationships, and word of mouth. Exhibitions, pop-up events, and collaborations are often the first step.
3. Live illustration requires preparation, not perfection
For live illustration events in Tokyo, speed, clarity, and consistency matter more than perfection. Practicing timed sketches and understanding your own drawing rhythm is essential. Being prepared allows you to stay calm and present during the event.
4. Japanese audiences value sincerity and craftsmanship
What surprised me most was how kind and supportive people were. In Japan, guests often appreciate the effort, care, and presence you bring to your work as much as the final drawing itself. I put a lot of thought into the packaging of my illustrations and into the longevity of the artwork. Over time, I also adjusted my tools and materials to ensure my pieces would last.
5. Visibility matters when becoming an illustrator in Japan
Having an online presence, sharing your process, and clearly explaining what you do helps people understand your work. Many clients discover illustrators through exhibitions, social media, or blog posts like this one.
photo by Yamaguchi Shun
What This First Event Changed for Me
Becoming an illustrator in Tokyo doesn’t happen overnight. Before this event, I was still unsure of my place and hesitant to put my work in front of others. This first live illustration experience changed how I saw myself as an illustrator. It showed me that confidence doesn’t come before action, it comes from accepting uncertainty, preparing seriously, and showing up.
That event gave me the courage to continue offering live illustration services and to say yes to new opportunities in Japan. Today, I work as a fashion and live portrait illustrator in Tokyo and across Japan. If you’re interested in live illustration for an event in Tokyo, or if you’re an illustrator curious about working in Japan, I hope this experience offers some insight and encouragement.
