Roamcouch
The lowdown on Roamcouch
Gifu , Japan
RoamCouch, born Ryo Ogawa in Gifu, Japan, is a Japanese street artist and contemporary Ukiyo-e painter known for highly detailed stencil works. Influenced by manga and trained in design, he began working full-time as an artist after a life-changing illness. Since 2011, RoamCouch has developed intricate, romantic compositions using more than fifty layers of hand-cut stencils, combining precision with cinematic atmosphere. His practice also incorporates Mino washi, creating a distinctive “Neo Ukiyo-e” language that bridges traditional Japanese print culture and contemporary urban art. Through projects including the Emotional Bridge Project, he uses art to revitalise public space and strengthen community connection.
