Ayumi Kobayashi is a Japanese artist and illustrator based in Japan. Born in 1964 in Ehime, Japan, Kobayashi graduated from the Setsu Mode Academy of Art, Department of Fine Arts in Tokyo.

Kobayashi began her career in the publishing industry as a freelance illustrator, known for her restrained use of colour and simple spatial compositions based on horizontal and vertical divisions and geometric shapes. In her more recent work, she has sought to develop her practice to achieve a harmonious balance between form and space. She also seeks to convey the potential significance of negative space, inspired by the Japanese concepts of "ma" (space, pause) and "yohaku" (margin, empty space), through the delicate interplay between presence and absence. Her work is inspired by De Stijl's pure abstraction, traditional Japanese aesthetics, the laws of nature, and Japanese architecture. These elements imbue her art with profound meaning and unique expression.

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In addition to her contemporary art practice, Kobayashi contributes her work to advertising and publications. Her distinctive style has been featured in corporate catalogs, published novel covers, and music label jackets, and has been well received for its visual impact.

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Kobayashi has held solo exhibitions and participated in group exhibitions in Japan. In recent years, she has begun to expand her activities internationally, including participation in a group exhibition in Germany. Her work is also included in private collections in Japan and abroad.

 

Selected clients include:
Gentosha, Kodansha, Kadokawa Shoten, Kadokawa Haruki's Office, Ushio Publishing co, Hearst Fujingaho, Kami Shobo, Asahi Kasei Homes, Hebel House, Moderna Records, etc.