Nao Kobayashi

Artist Statement

NunoZoo is a collection of fabric animals created by puppet artist Nao Kobayashi.
My work emerges from an interest in environmental impact and the power of symbolism within personal narratives, informed by my background in costume and puppet fabrication. I predominantly use recycled materials, employing a unique combination of fabric techniques to breathe new life into leftover textiles, scraps, and pre-owned garments.
While drawing attention to the global consequences of material waste, my work simultaneously invites the audience into a personal dialogue, evoking a sense of reunion with cherished childhood imagination.
Sewing—a universally shared skill across cultures—carries a rich and often unspoken histories. I imagine each stitch as a silent prayer passed down through generations, with mending in particular representing a form of healing. Through my hand-stitching, I aim to create a connection between these quiet, collective stories and the individual experiences of each viewer.