Misato Sano’s studio is a chaotic haven of wooden offcuts, lumber and vivid light. For years she has been crafting distinctly characterful dogs, each reflecting different moods and emotions.

Self-portraiture is Sano’s consistent theme – her dogs mirror her personality through expressions and gestures that are both charming and humorous. 'It’s an opportunity to deepen my self-love,' she says.

Sano’s woodcarving techniques, with their signature dimpled surfaces allowing for oil paint color variance, make each piece a playful delight. The exaggerated physical features add to the dog’s charm, while her explorations in embroidery and illustration continue this meditative dialogue.

With upcoming exhibitions at the Kan Hai Art Museum in Taiwan, Nucleus Portland and Igoone Arai in Miyagi, Japan, Sano is set for a year of tail-wagging adventures. Follow her journey on Instagram.