Ataru Sato attempts to understand himself, humanity, and the world around him through the act of drawing or painting. Expressing themes such as obsession, fear, and romance through fine ‒ perhaps excessively fine ‒ pencil lines and distinctive brushwork, Sato emphasises that his works are created for himself. He sees art as being created by people who are alive to express their lived experiences and has no aspiration to create art for artʼs sake, art that is novel, or art that seeks to be meaningful. Satoʼs images continually propagate, driven by his need to comprehend the indiscernible aspects of life. Born from a core of personal questions, his work is characterised by a powerful energy that penetrates deeply, leaving a lasting impression on its viewers.
Ataru Sato was born in Chiba Prefecture, Japan in 1986 and is currently based in Tokyo. In 2009, he graduated from the Advanced Art Course in the Department of Information Design, Faculty of Arts and Design at Kyoto University of Arts and Design. The artistʼs major group exhibitions include 10000 Lives: The 8th Gwangju Biennale (2010), Yokohama Triennale 2011:OUR MAGIC HOUR ‒ How Much of the World Can We Know? (2011), Inside (Palais de Tokyo, Paris, 2014), and Dojima River Biennale 2019 (Osaka, 2019). Satoʼs works have been acquired by the Takahashi Collection as well as by Louis Vuitton Malletier.
Courtesy KOSAKU KANECHIKA

A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services