Today we’d like to introduce you to Suguru Hiraide.
Hi Suguru, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in Okaya a city on the shores of Suwa-ko (Lake Suwa) in Nagano Prefecture in Japan. My father is a retired architect and engineer. He used to run a construction company with my mother. My parents wanted my brother and/or me to succeed in their business. However, after I graduated from high school and moved to Tokyo, I started to realize my real interest is in creative art and design. Also, as a 6’ 3” tall person and a free-spirited personality, I felt a little cramped and constrained in Japan. In 1993, I moved to the United States where I studied graphic design and sculpture at West Virginia University and received my BFA as well as the Most Outstanding Graduating Senior Art Student award. After that, I went on to study sculpture at California State University, Fullerton, where I received my MFA. My first job after graduate school was as an administrative assistant at the Museum of Neon Art in Los Angeles. During that time, I applied for teaching jobs and was offered a full-time metal and sculpture teaching position at MSU Texas. I accepted the job and came to Texas in 2003.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I would say that my life transition from Japan to the U.S. had its ups and downs mostly due to culture shocks. Learning a new language and adjusting to a new environment is exciting and intriguing but can be also confusing and frustrating.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I make sculptures that usually consist of different types of fabricated metals such as aluminum, steel, and stainless steel. I also incorporate cast metals such as brass and bronze for figurative and organic forms. In addition to these materials, I utilize kinetic sculpture techniques to add motion. I have made motor and/or wind-powered kinetic sculptures and have exhibited at indoor and outdoor shows nationally and internationally. I also teach sculpture and metals at MSU Texas. I enjoy teaching and sharing my knowledge and skills with the students.
What does success mean to you?
As an artist, I have never been 100% satisfied with my sculptures but as long as the work is professionally exhibited or collected, it is probably successful work and someone can appreciate it.
Contact Info:
- Website: suguruhiraide.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suguru.hiraide/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suguru.hiraide
Image Credits
Yasuyo Maruyama
Kolanowski Studio
