Folio

Hey everyone,

I'm Nat, a photographer turned illustrator and designer. Starting Mintymentaiko was my way of responding to the limitations on photography during Covid. What started as a creative outlet has now become my "ikigai"! It’s been quite the journey—from being curious and experimenting, to now being fully immersed in sketches and prints.

Creating stickers was my gateway into the world of illustration. Honestly, I never expected it to lead me here. But as I transition from behind the lens to behind the drawing board, I'm discovering a whole new way to express myself.

I’m a proud kidult who believes there’s no age limit to enjoying cute things. My art style is all about being cute, nostalgic, and colorful. It’s like a warm hug wrapped in a rainbow—an organized chaos that brings joy to the eye. I don’t really limit my style; sometimes I use outlines, sometimes I don’t, because I believe art should be a free expression of who I am.

In the past year, I’ve realized I really want to use my work to spread love and positivity. Even though it may seem a bit cliché in today’s world, I truly believe creating art that resonates with inner values is the most important thing.

Now, let me introduce my main crew—these three characters I’ve been drawing non-stop. They’re like the friends you turn to for a laugh or a shoulder to lean on. I aim to create art that feels like home—cozy, familiar, and maybe a little quirky.

So here’s to the journey ahead. It’s messy, it’s real, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

PS: My folio ahead.

Nat