@jagua_japan_international
Can you share a bit about yourself?
I have been working as a mehndi artist since 2008 and started my jagua business in 2013. Currently, I am the CEO of Kurikiyo Design Co., Ltd. and the JAGUA JAPAN Association. Over the years, I have had the privilege of participating in workshops in 10 different countries, sharing my passion for body art and cultural exchange. Meeting new people and connecting through body art is something I truly love. I look forward to creating meaningful connections and sharing the beauty of body art with people from around the world!
Name: Kiyoka Wada (49)
Country: Japan
Instagram: @jagua_japan_international
Email: kurikiyo.net@gmail.com
How did your journey began?
My journey began when I happened to see a street artist creating mehndi designs at a time when the internet was not yet widespread. That moment sparked my curiosity, and I quickly became completely absorbed in the art. Before I knew it, I had quit my job and made being an artist my full-time profession. This path has given me the opportunity to meet people from all over the world and, in turn, become someone who can inspire and influence others through my work.
If you weren’t doing this, what do you think you’d be doing?
I was an office worker in a major Japanese steel-related company until the age of 35. I think I would have just been an ordinary person, spending my short holidays doing body art for my own satisfaction.
What’s a random fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
I may seem like someone who lives freely, but in my first marriage, I experienced severe domestic violence. However, now I’m incredibly happy! Also, my taste in music is punk rock! I used to go to live shows often and even jumped into the mosh pit! Wow! Recently, I successfully lost weight from my highest of 82 kg down to 55 kg! I did it!
What’s the best piece of life advice you’ve ever received?
When I established my company, a senior mentor who runs a large business gave me this piece of advice: "Up until now, you’ve been expressing yourself purely as an artist. But as the CEO of a company, your job is to create a system that can function even without you." "Your mission is to create work that is truly needed by society. If the work is genuinely necessary, it will continue to exist even after you’re gone. That’s the kind of work you should focus on from now on." Those words have stayed with me ever since.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in your journey, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges in my journey was balancing my passion as an artist with the realities of running a business. I started purely enjoying art, but once I launched my business, I had to face new challenges such as management, building systems, and marketing. Another major challenge was overcoming severe domestic violence in my first marriage. However, going through that hardship taught me the strength to take control of my own life. I overcame these challenges by embracing change and continuously learning. I educated myself in business, connected with trustworthy people, and carved out my own path. And now, I can truly say that I am happy!
What are your dreams or goals?
My dream is to connect with people around the world through body art and spread the beauty of culture and self-expression. I want more people to discover jagua and mehndi art and experience the power of art in their lives. Another goal of mine is to create a system that continues even without me and pass the baton to the next generation. I want to share the knowledge and skills I have built over the years and create an environment where artists worldwide can thrive freely. On a personal level, I want to travel to even more countries, experience different cultures and perspectives, and enjoy life to the fullest! ✨
Are there any upcoming projects you're excited about?
Yes! In the fall of 2025, I will be traveling across France with an artist and dealer based in Marseille. We will be promoting Veil White, our white henna ink, and hosting workshops throughout the country. I’m really excited to share this unique product and connect with more artists in France!
What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are just starting out?
My advice is simple: Whether you're skilled or still learning, focus on bringing joy to the people in front of you. Art is not just about perfection—it’s about connection and making others feel something special. Don’t give up. The journey of an artist is full of challenges, but the most important thing is to keep going. Progress comes with time, and those who continue are the ones who succeed.
