Misato Sano's Wooden Dog Sculptures Reflect Self-Portraiture Through Canine Forms

Misato Sano, an artist based in Miyagi, Japan, creates wooden dog sculptures that serve as self-portraits, expressing various emotional states through canine forms. Her studio contains woodworking tools and natural light, where she has been developing this series for multiple years, expanding her collection of distinctive characters. Each sculpture represents different aspects of her personality, from timid to exuberant, with the artist noting that this visual exploration of her inner self through charming, humorous expressions has become a means of fostering self-acceptance. Sano employs specific woodcarving methods using camphor wood, featuring textured surfaces that mimic dog fur and allow for color variations when oil paint is applied. Exaggerated physical traits like limbs, fur tufts, and nails contribute to the playful nature of the works. These artistic approaches have also inspired her to experiment with embroidery and illustration, creating meditative stitched pieces and grid-based ink drawings that continue her introspective dialogue. Sano has several exhibitions scheduled: a duo show at Kan Hai Art Museum in Taiwan later this month, participation in Nucleus Portland's 10th anniversary exhibition in August in the United States, and a third presentation at Igoone Arai in Miyagi, Japan. Her sculptures include pieces titled "I Got a Good Idea!" (2025), "Raspberry" (2025), "I've Got a Feeling" (2024), "Bamboo Shoot Crazy" (2025), "Let's go, BOSCH!" (2025), "Sweet Dreams" (2022), "Rice Cake Pekingese" (2025), "Wrinkly Pug" (2025), "Captain Yorkie" (2025), and "The Forgetful Whippet" (2025), along with drawing and embroidery series from 2024-2025.