Ryota Unno (born 1977 in Shizuoka City) is a contemporary artist trained in Japanese painting at Tokyo University of the Arts. Building upon the perspective of traditional genre painting, he incorporates interactive and participatory elements into his work. Using traditional Japanese painting techniques such as mineral pigments and gold leaf, he delivers humor and philosophical questions to his audience. His communicative, playful expressions continue to earn high acclaim both in Japan and abroad.

Unno actively participates in exhibitions and projects domestically and internationally, constantly exploring new methods of expression.

His works are characterized by a unique style that fuses traditional Japanese painting techniques (such as mineral pigments and gold leaf) with contemporary expression. They not only possess visual beauty but also pose philosophical questions, offering viewers new perspectives. He is particularly recognized for artworks that depict human interaction, skillfully balancing technical precision with emotional sensitivity to create works that stimulate both the eye and the mind. Through dialogue and engagement with the audience, his art redefines the potential of artistic experience beyond passive viewing.

Originally from Shizuoka, Unno currently works out of his studio in the traditional downtown area of Tokyo. He has established a unique style of collecting everyday stories through conversation and depicting them as modern genre paintings. In his AR exhibition at Kinshicho PARCO, he explored new forms of expression that connect art with the local community by featuring landmarks and seasonal events of Sumida, such as summer fireworks festivals. He also presents solo exhibitions and projects overseas, including in Hong Kong and the United States, expanding his practice on a global scale.

2004 – Graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts, Department of Japanese Painting

2009 – Held solo exhibition “Ryota Unno Exhibition” (Shonandai MY Gallery, Tokyo / Singapore)

2013 – Held “Ryota Unno Exhibition III” (Shonandai MY Gallery, Tokyo)

2018 – Participated in “ART CENTRAL HONG KONG” (Art Projects Gallery, Hong Kong)

2019 – Solo exhibition “MANNER OF IRONY” (S+ARTS Gallery, Tokyo)

2021 – Solo exhibition “RYOTA UNNO” (BLANCHE-SHIP Gallery, Miami), among others
Displayed works at Tokyo Skytree and Kinshicho PARCO

2022 – Implemented “Sumida Tourist Information Board” project (Kinshicho PARCO, AR collaboration)

2024 – Participated in “REVERSE” exhibition (Izutsuya, Tokyo)
In addition to Japan, he has held numerous solo exhibitions internationally in cities such as Miami, New York, Monaco, Singapore, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.