Kazuya Ushioda

Born: 1983, Tochigi, Japan

Japanese artist Kazuya Ushioda paints exquisite portraits that merge traditional techniques with innovative materials.

Interested in painting from a young age, Ushioda earned a PhD in Fine Art from Bunsei University in 2015 where during his doctoral research he focused on developing new tempera formulations. This resulted in the creation of Impasto OG Tempera, his now signature medium.

Combining animal glue, pigments and a small amount of oil, this unique water-based formula allows the artist more flexibility even if the paint is applied thickly, as it provides outstanding adhesion and has quick drying properties. He initially applies his tempera medium for the underpainting, and he then transitions to oil paints for the finishing layers.

Although cleanliness and purity are recurring themes his work, he regards ‘prayer’ as the most important one, not in a religious way, but rather as hope for the goodness of humanity. His work offers a thoughtful response to what he sees as an uncertain and jarring world, aiming to highlight beauty to inspire the viewer.

Kazuya Ushioda has exhibited across the world in Japan, Spain, USA and the UK and his work can be found in numerous private collections. More recently, Ushioda  achieved Signature Status with the Portrait Society of America and won the Sheng Xinyu Art Award in this year's ARC Competition (2026).

For purchase enquiries and costs, or to arrange a viewing, please contact our team at info@plusonegallery.com or phone the gallery directly on 020 7730 7656.