Oct 28, 2025
4 minute read
Do you prefer creating monochromatic color pops or multi-color pieces?
"The design part of me says I like monochromatic because I could focus more on the composition rather than the emotion of the work. But the fine-art part of me says the opposite of course. But I think I will be able to find a common ground between those two voices."
When did you find your style of Black & White characters?
"Probably during college when I started studying graphic design and illustration. I find this style more suited for me in the industry. It’s more straight to the point but also has a strong punch to it."
How does color enhance your art?
"Color for sure plays a huge part that serves as an emotional driver in my work."
"I also use color as a signifier, something that associates with a specific or idea that adds another layer of meaning to the work."
From concept to creation, what comes first: color or shape?
"Black & white comes in first as I prioritize form and design. Color comes in second. Sometimes I will do it in reverse depending on what I am trying to say in my work."
You’re married to illustrator and ceramicist Lili Todd, and you often work under the same roof.
Has Lili's style ever influenced or inspired your own color choices?
"Lili for sure is more colorful than I am. I think she is more spontaneous but I like to carefully think before I decide on the color I use. Her work helps me motivate myself to expand my color palette and not worry so much about the result."
Photo by Matthew Kam
Art by Lili Todd
Art by Lili Todd
Has a last-minute change in color ever shifted the way you see a piece of your own work?
"Yeah, always. However, I’m usually committed to the first outcome so I hardly make last-minute changes with color unless it's bugging me a lot. Haha."
Final piece for HUF Worldwide
Over your career, how has your use of color evolved?
"Actually, I think as my work became more commercial and focused more on a limited color palette through printmaking or printing t-shirt graphics; I’ve noticed that I’ve distanced myself away from the vibrant colors I used back in High School. The colors became more limited, which is not a bad thing but it did pause my exploration with color. However, in recent days, I’ve been able to focus more on my personal work and I could tell I’m hungry for color again."
Target heyday x Keiji Ishida Collection
Collaboration featuring New York Mets pitcher, Kodai Senga.
Photo: W+K Tokyo
What color or combination of colors do you want to use in your next piece?
"I don't have the exact color in mind, but I’m hoping to use more vibrant fluorescent colors. I’ve been using black as my primary color and I think it’s time to prioritize different colors. I also love the color combination that camouflage patterns make, so cohesive yet there are elements of contrast within the color that makes it unique. It’s dazzling for sure."
What colors often represent the Keiji Ishida style?
What artists or brands would you like to collaborate with on a future project?
What can we learn from Keiji's attention grabbing use of color?
Sometimes, a single strong color is all you need to pull the audience in. If you'd like more from INFINITE COLOR SERIES, let us know by sharing and tagging @hoppn.
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