At Rei Cosmetics, we’re passionate about celebrating beauty and creativity, and that includes spotlighting the incredible talent of Japanese female artists through our limited-edition Thank You Cards. We’re thrilled to announce our latest collaboration features none other than the renowned illustrator, Yuko Shimizu.
About Yuko Shimizu
If the name Yuko Shimizu sounds familiar, it’s because her iconic work has appeared just about everywhere - from the pages of The New York Times, TIME, and The New Yorker, to cover art for DC Comics, Penguin Random House, and Scholastic. Her illustrations have also powered advertising campaigns for brands like Apple, Google, BBC, and Sony. She has also won numerous awards that are too many to name here.
Her work blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with a modern sensibility, often exploring themes of gender, race, and identity. Strong female figures, everyday city life, and cultural nuance all come alive in her pieces.
Beyond her published work, Yuko is also a dedicated educator at The School of Visual Arts in NYC, where she shares her expertise and creative process with students and followers alike. Her Instagram and website not only feature finished artwork but also offer an inspiring behind-the-scenes look at how each piece comes to life.
What makes her journey even more remarkable is that Yuko pursued illustration as a second career. She originally studied advertising and marketing at Waseda University and worked in corporate PR for over a decade before boldly shifting gears. In 2003, she earned her MFA from SVA’s Illustration as Visual Essay Program, and she’s been creating and teaching ever since.
The Art: Hummingbirds
For our collaboration, we selected a piece titled Hummingbirds, a celebration of strength in numbers and quiet resilience. The artwork speaks to us deeply as a small business - an affirmation that even the smallest voices can make a powerful impact when united.
When you take a closer look at the illustration, you’ll notice the layered textures and thoughtful details - each stroke representing the care, time, and intention behind the final piece. It’s a reminder that beautiful work is only created through careful planning, patience, and hard work.
A Gift of Gratitude
As a token of appreciation, we’re including these exclusive Hummingbirds Thank You Cards in all orders, while supplies last. Whether you keep it as a piece of inspiration or pass it on to someone special, we hope it serves as a gentle reminder of the beauty and creativity that surrounds us every day.