THE ARTIST KOKO
KOKO: Kotono Ogihara
ーProfessional Chalk artist, Mural / Window artist, Illustrator
1994 Born in Japan
2017 Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
2019 Completed professional Chalk Artist course
2022 Completed Typography course in UCLA Extension
Hi, I’m KOKO! I specialize in smudge-proof chalk art, a style that is not yet widely known in the U.S. My artwork serves as a beautiful keepsake long after an event has ended.
The texture of chalk brings warmth and a human touch to your space, and each customized design reflects the life, happiness, and joy of my clients. I'm excited to continue elevating spaces here in Los Angeles with chalk art, bringing more joy and creating memorable experiences.
MY JOURNEY
BEGAN IN AUSTRALIA
Born in Japan, I initially pursued a career as a dietitian and earned a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics in 2017. However, my true passion for art was always present. In 2019, while visiting a café in Australia, I came across a beautiful chalkboard that completely captivated me. “Is this drawn with chalk?” I thought, and immediately felt an urge to learn how to create art like that.
I traveled to the Gold Coast in Australia to study under Monique Canon, a pioneer in chalk art. After three weeks of intensive training, I realized that I could bring happiness to people by using chalkboards—something everyone is familiar with—and I became even more immersed in the art form.
What if chalkboards around the city were beautiful? I thought, “I want to increase the amount of chalk art that can warm people's hearts in their daily lives.” With this passion, I made the decision to transition from a dietitian to a full-time chalk artist.
INSPIRING LOS ANGELES
In Japan, I came across one book featuring a stunning chalk mural. It's created by hand-lettering master "Peter Greco" for "Eat Drink Americano" in Downtown LA. I was deeply inspired by his work, which inspired me to move to Los Angeles to study typography to further enhance my chalk art with beautiful lettering.
Chalk art is a blend of both signage and art. Unlike printed posters filled with text, chalk art naturally integrates text and illustrations by hand-drawing, creating a personal and inviting atmosphere. In a world overflowing with digital prints, hand-drawn chalkboards stand out, offering a traditional, cozy vibe that mass-produced signs simply can't replicate.
NOW
I combine the smooth, colorful chalk techniques I learned in Australia with the typography skills I gained in Los Angeles to create a unique style of chalk art.
Currently, I am expanding beyond just menus and signage. I also take on live painting at events, exhibitions, and creating props for commercials and TV shows, broadening my artistic reach and opportunities.
