Naoko Stoop

Hello, world. I am a Brooklyn, New York based selftaught illustrator. Several years ago when I was stuck in my life, I quit everything and started to paint hoping to find a new prospect in my life and nurture my inner child. Since then, I have been painting.
My artwork comes from everyday life in my neighborhood. I draw, paint and print in my loft studio. Most of the materials I use are also from the neighborhood. I get inspiration from beautiful Prospect Park. I run along the Brooklyn Bridge Park. I see beautiful sunset from my rooftop. I walk around in my neighborhood with a sketchbook and my iPhone. And I meditate in my studio to be present.
I’m trying to bring out the five-year old in people through my artwork. Because I believe that is the last moment before children start learning how complicated the world is, and that was when I once stopped drawing. It took me decades to come back to myself.

Now? Here I am drawing everyday!

 

Awards:

New York Times Best Illustrated Picture Book

National Parenting Publication Award, Gold

Gelett Burgess Children's Book Award

Education:

BA in Business from Keio University
AAS in Interior Design from New York School of Interior Design

Grew up in Japan,
Creating in Brooklyn, New York,

 

I love Moomin Troll, Totoro and...

 

blog: From Naoko's Stoop