• Music and art inspires Bel to express freedom in his artworks

Amin Abbas

“Music and art are a natural part of my life,” said BEL, a Japanese artist who began his career as a painter in 2011.

However, when given a choice between the two, BEL said once he started drawing (portraits), he had to take the harsh decision of quitting his career in music.

But that decision paid off. In 2022, he received the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award at the MAF TOKYO NFT ART Festival.

In addition to holding solo exhibitions across Japan several times a year, he also hosts exhibitions in cities such as New York, Bangkok and Taiwan, emphasizing personal connection through art.

His concept is “Freedom:  Turning all aspects of life into art.”

“Since I’ve always drawn freely, I haven’t really faced any particular challenges or obstacles,” BEL said. “Music and art are a natural part of my life. Just like brushing my teeth, holding a pen and creating is part of my everyday routine.”

BEL was one of the Japanese artists who was invited to World Art Dubai 2025 where his artworks at the event were focused on ‘Lions’.

“This time, I focused on creating three-dimensional works. The lion, painted using an innovative and unique technique, exudes a sense of overflowing strength and power.

“I was very pleased to meet with many people at the event who were amazed by my artworks,” BEL added.

BEL mentioned that he is working on designing a label for a Japanese shochu (barley spirit) by Iki no Kura Distillery — “Iki no Ko” and planning to share it with the world.