La Mela
A few questions to Kimiyasu Kato
Let’s talk about Genesis—how did your story begin?
In 1988, I arrived in Italy and began working as an architect in Milan. But it was when I came to Como—specifically to the Terragni—and decided to live in this city rich in nature and humanity, that a new story began for me, different from the one I had lived in Japan.
How does nature inspire your projects and lifestyle?
Rather than being a starting point for inspiration, nature pushes me to immerse myself in it, to feel the air, and to refine my sensitivity toward materials. It is through this dialogue that my works are born.
How do you practice the search for wonder?
Everyday life is full of wonders and emotions. If the mind is disturbed by external noise, we simply cannot see them. As Zen monks do, if every action is performed with care and method, wonder and emotion will come to us.
Who are the people who have inspired you the most artistically and professionally?
My inspiration originates from Calder’s mobiles. However, I believe I’ve been influenced—perhaps on a subconscious level—by a great number of artists and by the work and creations of many artisans.
What emotion or feeling do you hope people experience when they see your work?
I simply hope they feel happiness.
Five words that you closely associate with the concept of the Garden of Eden
Harmony, innocence, abundance, nature, peace.
Pierre-Alexandre Risser
Bio
Born in Japan in 1956, Kimiyasu Kato moved to Italy in 1988, choosing Como as his home. For over thirty years, he worked professionally as an architect while also cultivating a deep passion for art. In recent years, he has explored and developed various artistic disciplines, from photography to drawing and sculpture. Lately, he has dedicated himself successfully to the creation of kinetic sculptures—“mobiles”—which have been very well received. His artistic approach, deeply rooted in Japanese culture, is distinguished by its innate essentiality.