Bored Panda reached out to Kazuya Ishikawa, a renowned figure in the Japanese art scene, known for his unique approach to transforming everyday objects into whimsical items.

Ishikawa said, "Life's daily routines can often feel mundane, so I like to sprinkle a bit of magic into the ordinary. My inspiration comes from the desire to make everyday moments delightful. Like how a goat sponge could bring a smile while cleaning, or a thumbtack caught like a butterfly turning a simple task into a tiny adventure. My ideas often stem from observing the world with a childlike curiosity, where anything and everything can be whimsical and full of life."

On his design process, he explained, "Designing these pieces is like creating characters for a story. Each notepad, pencil, or eraser begins as a character in my mind, with its own personality and story. I sketch my ideas, imagining how a pencil, stern like a businessman, might react in an office setting, or how an eraser, busy like an office worker, wears down with use. It's a playful and imaginative process, blending fantasy with the real world."

Regarding the balance between art and utility, the artist stated to us, "In my creations, the balance between art and utility is essential. It's like giving a soul to inanimate objects. I believe objects we use daily shouldn't just be functional; they should bring joy and inspire. Like the electric houseplant – it's not just a solar panel, but a piece of art that energizes both your room and your gadgets. This balance makes everyday life a bit more enchanting."

He also shared his journey with us, Pandas, "My journey has been a path of constant learning and adapting. Early on, I faced challenges in translating my imaginative concepts into practical designs. But with each creation, I've honed my skills and understanding of materials. My style has evolved from simple modifications to more complex and integrated designs, like the pizza box that transforms into a plate. It's a never-ending process of growth and imagination."

Looking forward, Ishikawa expressed enthusiasm for future themes: "Looking ahead, I'm excited to explore themes that connect nature and technology in harmonious ways, like blending organic forms with digital functionality. I'm currently conceptualizing a series of interactive art pieces that not only serve a purpose but also tell a story about our relationship with technology and the environment. Each new project is a step into a future where art and utility coexist in whimsical harmony."