MEET THE ARTIST, SHOGO OTA
Posted on
17/09/2025
Blank Canvas is an initiative where artists transform our head and neckwear into vibrant expressions of creativity. Each design tells a story, turning everyday essentials into inspiring works of art.
Shogo Ota is an artist and illustrator whose work blends traditional Japanese influences with contemporary design. His art often explores the balance between nature and modern life, using bold lines and organic forms to create striking visuals.
Tell us a bit more about yourself and your journey as an artist
Although Shogo Ota hails from Japan, he has called the Pacific Northwest home for more than a decade. After graduating with a BFA from the University of Idaho, Ota landed at Modern Dog Design Co. in Seattle. He established his own studio, Tireman Studio, in 2012. He has been working with companies large and small, from Starbucks, Seattle Kraken & Sounders FC, FIFA World Cup, Fjällräven, Snow Peak, local chefs and more, on everything from painted murals to branding projects. Ota is sometimes referred to as a “stylistic chameleon.”
Where do you draw inspiration from? – or can you tell us a bit about the story behind your design
I always get inspired from nature, animals and cultural art and patterns. For this art collection, I wanted to focus on the native birds in PNW. I love snowboarding, mountain biking, camping and outdoor activities and the feeling of those are similar to flying like birds. I know I can’t fly but the feeling of the excitement and flow must be similar. Those birds that I used (Blue Heron, eagle and black bird) simply look badass for those scarves!
Can you take us through the steps you use when creating a piece of art?
I started sketching those birds and many different kinds of background art that matched with those birds. I am Japanese and use some of the art style from history as references, so I’ve developed it for this project. After we had the solid directions with those birds, we developed the background art, color and pattern ideas and more.
What are your favorite outdoor activities? and why?
I love snowboarding, mountain biking, camping, crabbing and sometimes surfing but I’m not good at it. It’s the beauty of being in nature, enjoying the activities with the great feeling of the speed, the smell of the water, dirt, snow and enjoying it to spend the time with my friends and family.
What does "Live More Now" mean for you? and how do you Live More Now every day?
It means very important for me to focus on the right now moment. I can’t change the past already happened or worries for the future. We can always learn from the past and make the future better. We all should have some more nature time and love the moment without the technologies sometimes. That way you can develop the five senses way more.
Tell us about 3 things about you that most people may not know?
I have a purple belt in Brazilian Jiujitsu.
I’m fluent in Japanese, pretty comfortable with English and now know some basic Spanish (over 900 days straight in Duolingo).
I didn’t start my art till college. My major was Business Economics!