Barrels Wine Bar

Ann Sekizaki

Ann Sekizaki, a graduate of the University of Washington with degrees in Sociology and Psychology, has always harbored a deep and abiding passion for art and design. Influenced by her years living in Japan, her artistic sensibilities carry the delicate yet profound imprint of Ikebana, Sumi-e painting, Ukiyo-e, the ceremonial elegance of the tea tradition (Chado; the way of the tea) and the organic Bonsai forms. Initially drawn to erotica, traditional and contemporary Japanese styles, her work today seamlessly blends Eastern and Western aesthetics to create genuinely cross-cultural expressions. This fusion shapes every facet of her work, whether ceramics, jewelry, interior and landscape design, home building or industrial art – all reflecting her lifelong pursuit of creative exploration.

Most recently, Ann has turned her attention to capturing the essence and allure of automobiles. As a fervent sports car enthusiast, her journey behind the wheel has been as integral to her artistic evolution as her studio practice. Driving supercars back from Canada and working closely with a private auto dealer to source unique vehicles for collectors has only heightened her appreciation for automotive beauty. It’s no coincidence that her passion for cars runs in the family: her grandfather and father’s enthusiasm for acquiring and showcasing automobiles – alongside her siblings’ collective interest immersed her from childhood in a world of car shows and international automotive culture. Inspired by the thrill of Formula 1 races and the timeless charisma of classic and high-performance vehicles, Ann’s automotive paintings have garnered recognition and have been exhibited at the LeMay Car Museum of America, MIVAL, and in various private collections.

Drawing influence from artistic giants Chagall, Hokusai, da Vinci, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, and van Gogh, Ann strives to evoke movement, atmosphere, and emotive presence in her sports car portraits. Working primarily in acrylics, she harnesses realistic abstraction to convey speed, landscape, and form, forging a visual language that resonates with car aficionados and art lovers alike.

Her life journey – spanning London, Seattle, Manhattan, New Canaan, Greenwich, Tokyo, Sydney, Cabo, Canada, and Hong Kong – continues to inform her global outlook and artistic voice. Beyond her studio and easel, she revels in culinary arts, travel, and the fun energy of pickleball. For those interested in commissions or seeking more information about her work, she can be contacted at: (425) 221-3910 | Sekizakiautoart@gmail.com

Open February 6 ArtWalk

Stop in Anytime to See This Show:
Tuesday - Saturday, 3PM - 9PM
Barrels Wine Bar

Barrels Wine Bar

7605 SE 27th St #107, Mercer Island, WA 98040
206-268-0588
www.barrelswinebar.com

Barrels is a Mercer Island gem located in Town Center just off I-90. We are both a bottle shop with over 1000 bottles and a wine bar featuring New World and Old World wines. Enjoy a wine flight, a charcuterie plate, local artwork, or a bottle with friends or loved ones in a cozy, unpretentious setting. We have live music, tasting events with guest winemakers, and a friendly staff. We bring Wine Country to the Island!