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Kazuko Shinoka a Japanese native, resides in the Hollywood area with her kitty, Princess Sachi Marie Shinoka. Although Kazuko has many interests, her one true love is Cats which are her main source of inspiration in design. Kazuko has designed for Hello Kitty for several years and is a graphic designer for a leading toy company as well as a designer for Spicy Brown.

Kazuko’s other interest include the culinary arts which led her to Shiten Noji International Buddhist College, in Osaka, Japan where she obtained her Associate Degree in Home Economics. In April 1998, Kazuko came to California where she attended California State University, Los Angeles and obtained her Bachelor Degree in Design.

Where were you born?

I was born in Okayama, Japan, and grew up in Osaka.

Do you have any pets?

I have a Siamese mix. Her name Princess Sachi Marie Shinoka.

Which artists do you admire and why?

Noel Tolentino (bon bon) & Illustrator of French Kitty. Both of their design are the simple combination of simple geometric shapes, and contrast colors. I think that they give us the strongest impression. I really like the neatness of the lines and shapes.

Who are some of your favorite characters?

Hello Kitty, Usa Hana, Queenie-Lou, French Kitty, Nyan Nyan Nyanko

What was your first big break?

When I first saw Hello Kitty. (is this right answer?)

Where do you find your inspiration?

From my cat, Princess Sachi Marie, and research shopping, and VH1.

What makes you happy?

Buying cute stuff and creating cat characters so they will be able to live forever.

What makes you sad?

Seeing animals die.

What do you like to eat?

Yakitori, Sushi, Shabu Shabu, Cream Puff, and Cakes.

What do you hate to eat?

Fish eggs, and chicken liver

What are you listening to?

80’s Hard Rock such as Guns & Roses, Trixter and Stryper….etc…

What’s your favorite toy?

Moncchichi and his house.

What’s your favorite game?

Scrabble

What would you be if you weren’t an artist?

Chef

Do you like to cook? If so, what?

Yes, I do. Japanese home cooking such as Soboro, Mabo Tofu, and Hamburg.

If you could meet anyone (living or dead) who would it be?

My Dad, Japanese actor Ken Watanebe, and Dr. Brian Weiss

What are your hopes for the future?

To create long lasting cat characters. I hope that I will be able to donate some money that I earn from my characters to non-profit cat adoption organizations and pet clinics.

“When I think “SPICY BROWN”, I think ..

about cinnamon cane”