www.yuriozaki.com
Yuri Ozaki grew up in a small town in Mie Prefecture on the Kii Peninsula of Japan. The area is known for its unique wet climate and a mystical history. This area also features UNESCO World Heritage registered sacred sites and pilgrimage routes. While hiking some of these ancient trails during her visit to Japan in June 2011, Yuri was inspired to create a series of misty forest scenes. The beauty and mystery of her home region has been a strong influence on Ozaki's work.
Yuri came to the US in 2001 to study English. After four years of exploring the southeast, Yuri moved to Huntsville, AL - where she still resides with her husband. Since coming to Huntsville, she has been studying and painting much of the local scenery. Her paintings of downtown Huntsville have been very popular and these works - along with others - have earned her recognition and awards in the area.