Tomoo Gokita’s eerie paintings exist on the periphery of figuration and abstraction. Exploring the depths of human psychology, his works typically depict figures made unrecognisable by abstract brush strokes and smears of paint. These faceless protagonists, often sourced from vintage magazines and newspapers, include celebrities, pro wrestlers and lingerie models. Gokita chooses to impartially obscure these figures rather than indulge their cultural cachet - using a film noir, monochromatic palette to heighten psychological undertones. The artist draws inspiration from movements including Surrealism, German figuration and Neo-Expressionism, as well as his own background in fashion, illustration and music. These diverse references and experiences have instilled both playfulness and perfectionism in his creative process.