“Straight, Simple, Easy & Free.”

This is the motto of celebrated contemporary artist Hideki Kimura, whose stunning creations have led him to be dubbed the “rock star” painter from Kyoto.

Born in Osaka, Japan in 1942, Kimura is a graduate of the Kyoto City University of Arts Department of Design. Kimura is also a pivotal figure in Japan’s age of rock, having organized several legendary events such as Too Much, Japan’s first rock music festival.

After retiring from teaching and celebrating his 60th birthday, Kimura turned to painting murals and to date has created more than 180 works in Japan and abroad.

Under his brand, Ki Yan Studio, Hideki Kimura continues to produce stunning visual works of art. His dynamic art style is fresh and evocative, and it is a fascinating combination of his background in Japan’s early rock music scene and reverence for Japanese culture.

Many of Kyoto’s temples and sidewalk and businesses have become Kimura’s canvas and are instantly recognizable as they feature symbols unique to East Asian art such as carp fish, lotus flowers, elepants, and peacocks all done in his signature style. One such place of interest is Shoren-in Temple, where the sliding doors in the dining hall are beautifully decorated with lotus flowers.

Ki Yan Studio is located in the Gion district of Kyoto and the selection of personal goods such as clothing, tableware, textiles, and stationery all feature artwork designed by Kimura or inspired by his murals.