Naoko Matsubara, whose name poetically translates to “straightforward girl of the pine tree field,” is an artist whose life and work intertwine with profound simplicity and creative curiosity. Born in the ancient capital of Kyoto and the daughter of a Shinto priest, she discovered her passion for art early and cultivated a practice of woodcut artistry.

In this intimate portrait, Matsubara reflects on the delicate balance of creation—embracing the unexpected beauty of mistakes and the profound joy found in the tactile nature of woodcut printing. Her story reveals a personal and artistic journey shaped by cultural dualities, self-discovery, and the powerful interplay between intention and intuition.