Mayumi Tsubokura, a Japanese artist and surfer, embodies a life lived on the edge of adventure and artistic expression. Her story is a captivating blend of diverse experiences, from the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo to the untamed waters of Hawaii and the artistic landscapes of France.
Welcome to an insightful journey through the life and work of this unique individual.
The Artist’s Roots: From Tokyo’s Red-Light District to the Shores of Hawaii
Mayumi’s artistic journey began in the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant Roppongi-Akasaka district, a place brimming with traditional Japanese culture and artistic energy. Growing up surrounded by geisha houses, kabuki theaters, and a captivating mix of traditional and Western influences, she was exposed to a world of colors, sounds, and artistic expressions that profoundly shaped her sensibilities.
Her early exposure to the world of Kabuki, with its rich blend of literature, music, painting, and singing, fostered a deep appreciation for traditional Japanese art. She was equally drawn to Western influences, from music icons like Otis Redding and James Brown to renowned artists like Géricault and Rainer Maria Rilke.
These diverse influences, coupled with her father’s artistic background, ignited a spark within her, prompting her to seek inspiration beyond Japan’s borders. Hokusai’s iconic “The Great Wave off Kanagawa” fueled her fascination with the power and beauty of the ocean, a theme that would later become central to her art.
From Martial Arts to Bodyguarding: A Life of Discipline and Protection
Mayumi’s journey took an unexpected turn when she discovered a passion for martial arts, a path her father initially resisted. She dedicated herself to rigorous training, spending four hours daily for over a decade, mastering various Budö disciplines. This dedication led to an unconventional career as a bodyguard, protecting individuals across Japan and Europe, a role that exposed her to a diverse range of people and experiences.
This period in her life, characterized by discipline and protection, played a crucial role in shaping her resilience and fortitude. Her martial arts training also introduced her to the healing power of Shiatsu, a massage technique that would later become a source of comfort and well-being for surfers and athletes seeking relief from their demanding endeavors.
A Love for the Waves: From Body Surfing in Shimoda to Riding the Giants of Hawaii
Despite growing up in Tokyo, Mayumi’s connection to the ocean was deeply ingrained. Trips to Shimoda, a coastal town just a few hours away, fostered a love for the ocean, leading to early experiences with bodysurfing. In 1968, a chance encounter with a Gerry Lopez signature surfboard sparked an enduring fascination with surfing.
Mayumi’s first trip to Hawaii in the early 1970s marked a turning point in her life, introducing her to a world of surfing legends and the raw power of the ocean. Her fearless pursuit of the waves, bodysurfing Pipeline without fins or a board, earned her the nickname “Kamikaze Boy” from Gerry Lopez, a testament to her adventurous spirit.
However, this daring spirit nearly cost her dearly. During her initial days in Hawaii, she encountered treacherous waves, nearly drowning before being rescued by a local surfer named Rabbit. This harrowing experience served as a wake-up call, urging her to approach surfing with respect and humility.
Rabbit’s guidance and the camaraderie of his lifeguard team, which included legendary surfer Eddie Aikau, transformed her perspective on surfing, leaving her with a deep appreciation for the sport and the people who embraced it. Her experience at the 1971 Pipe Masters solidified her love for the waves, leaving her forever changed by the raw power and beauty of Hawaii’s surf.
An Artistic Journey: From Paris to Tahiti, Capturing the Essence of the Ocean
Mayumi’s journey took her around the globe, eventually leading her to Paris, where she now resides, 37 years after her first visit. Her travels exposed her to diverse cultures and landscapes, particularly the mesmerizing beauty of Tahiti, a place that resonated with her deep connection to the ocean.
Her art reflects her life experiences, weaving together her love for the ocean, her fascination with traditional Japanese art, and her experiences as a surfer and observer of the human spirit. She seeks to capture the essence of her dreams and visions, drawing inspiration from the beauty and power of the ocean.
Her paintings are not merely representations of surfers but rather interpretations of their desires, fantasies, and the profound connection they share with the ocean. Mayumi’s artistic vision invites viewers to experience the ocean through the lens of their own imaginations, to embrace the universal beauty that lies beneath the surface.
A Legacy of Waves and Dreams: From Iconic Films to Artistic Collaborations
Mayumi’s impact extends beyond her artistic creations. She played a crucial role in the making of the renowned surf documentary “Riding Giants,” a film that captured the spirit and history of surfing, inspiring generations of surfers.
Her unique perspective and deep connection to the surfing community have made her a cherished figure among surfing legends. She has shared special moments with iconic surfers like Michael Ho, Johnny Boy Gomes, and Miki Dora, forging lasting friendships and memories.
Looking ahead, Mayumi envisions new projects that blend her artistic vision with her passion for the ocean. She plans to collaborate with master moonlight photographer Kenji Ishikawa on an exhibition that explores the beauty of nocturnal waves, a theme that perfectly aligns with her artistic sensibilities.
Mayumi Tsubokura’s life story is a testament to the power of embracing diversity, following your passions, and staying true to your artistic vision. Her journey, interwoven with adventure, discipline, and an unwavering love for the ocean, continues to inspire and captivate audiences, leaving a lasting mark on the world of art and surfing.
