Takao Fujioka: Art Director, Graphic Designer, and Illustrator

Originating from the Osaka region of Japan, Takao Fujioka emerges as a notable graphic artist with a deep-rooted passion for jazz. His journey into the world of jazz began in his late twenties, ignited by not only the music itself and its skilled performers but also by the captivating artwork adorning cherished album covers. A visit to New York City in 2007 catalyzed Takao, prompting him to channel his love for jazz into his artistic creations. Over the years, he has established himself as a prolific artist, contributing to numerous album covers and illustrations while showcasing his work at prestigious venues such as The Jazz Gallery in NYC. Beyond his artistic endeavors, Takao has made a significant impact on the cultural landscape of the Kansai region in Japan. He has organized concerts, operated a record label, and notably founded Way Out West. He also has an enduring legacy in the realm of jazz appreciation and artistic expression.
 

He has cherished the art of drawing since childhood but somehow halted this passion for an extended period upon transitioning into a professional graphic designer in his early twenties. The resurgence of his artistic endeavors occurred at the age of 28 during his inaugural visit to New York City, driven by a desire to immerse himself in live jazz. The intention was to capture the awe-inspiring musical moments on paper, serving as a personal record. Concluding his two-week stay in New York, he was fortunate to present his illustrations to Dale Fitzgerald of The Jazz Gallery, who not only appreciated them but also offered strong encouragement to continue honing his craft. Following this guidance, he has consistently produced jazz-related artwork ever since. Remarkably, throughout his entire career, his artistic focus has been exclusively on creating illustrations inspired by jazz.

As an admirer of Reid Miles, Fujioka ventured into designing for the local jazz scene during the early 2000s, crafting flyers and CD covers. Eventually, he did a solo exhibition at The Jazz Gallery, thereby introducing his work to jazz enthusiasts worldwide and propelling him into the realm of album cover design. Primarily, the graphic design world of Reid Miles greatly influenced how he designed his work for album covers and other personal projects.