Ka (べし), the Japanese illustrator known for her delicate yet subtly dark visual world, releases her long-awaited debut art book—a poetic collection that explores the beauty and mystery of flowers, plants, and imagined spaces. With a style that blends cuteness with retro color palettes and an underlying sense of melancholy, Ka’s work evokes a dreamlike atmosphere that feels at once nostalgic and otherworldly. This first art collection offers not only a comprehensive look at her creative journey, but also a rare glimpse into the artistic process behind her most enchanting illustrations.
The book features a carefully selected portfolio of works that trace Ka’s evolution from her early beginnings to the present day. Alongside these are three newly created pieces: a brand-new cover illustration and two artworks designed to walk readers through her illustration techniques step by step. These original contributions provide a vivid example of how her signature aesthetic comes to life—from initial inspiration and rough sketches to fine details and coloring. The included “making-of” section reveals her meticulous workflow and artistic decisions, shedding light on the effort and sensitivity involved in crafting each image.
A unique element of this book is a 16-page sketch collection, printed on specially chosen textured paper. This section replicates the feeling of flipping through the artist’s private notebook, filled with scribbled ideas, fleeting thoughts, and raw sketches that hint at the foundations of her final works. Together with an exclusive interview, readers are invited deeper into Ka’s creative world—one that is both gentle and mysterious, shaped by intuition, emotion, and a love for the quiet poetry of nature.
The book is published in a wide-format B5 size and produced using “Brilliant Palette,” a cutting-edge high-definition printing process that captures the full nuance of her art—from soft hues and fabric-like textures to the glow of flowers and the shadows that surround them. Every detail is faithfully reproduced, allowing readers to experience the artwork in its most vivid and immersive form.
Based in Niigata, Japan, Ka began sharing her illustrations on social media while working full-time. Her evocative style quickly drew attention, resonating with those who are drawn to quiet narratives, retro-inspired tones, and visual storytelling that leans into both light and shadow. In March 2025, she will hold her first solo exhibition, titled “flowery,” at Picaresque Gallery, a fitting celebration of her growing presence in the illustration world.
This debut art book is more than a visual showcase—it is a personal archive, a reflection of a world built with sensitivity, silence, and imagination. With nearly 200 pages of carefully curated content, including finished pieces, behind-the-scenes details, rough sketches, and personal reflections, it captures the full essence of Ka’s artistic voice. For fans of her work, illustration enthusiasts, and anyone captivated by the quiet beauty of the unseen, this book is a precious and inspiring volume to treasure.
