the Japanese Friendship Garden and museum (JFGm) collaborated with artist Saitamon to create a one of a kind Toro Nagashi design for the 2023 festival.

The design is featured on a handful of merchandise that will be available in August 2023 (In-store exclusive).

Saitamon BIO

Hello everyone! I'm Claudia Schliapnik, a self-taught illustrator hailing from the beautiful country of Chile. With a deep passion for art and a love for all things cute and lovely, I have dedicated myself to creating kawaii illustrations for more than 10 years.

Japanese pop culture has played a significant role in shaping my artistic journey. From anime and manga to video games and kawaii fashion, I am deeply immersed in the captivating world that Japan has to offer. This rich cultural influence can be seen in my illustrations, as I strive to infuse each piece with the essence of kawaii and pay homage to the iconic characters and themes that have captured the hearts of fans worldwide.

My illustrations are characterized by their vibrant colors, soft lines, and peaceful features. I enjoy bringing adorable characters to life, depicting them in colorful settings and conveying a sense of joy and innocence. Whether it's cute animals, delightful food items, or enchanting magical creatures, my goal is to evoke a smile and create a connection with viewers.

Links: linktr.ee/saitamon

Instagram: @Saitamon