About

About Pleasant Shimo

Pleasant Shimo produces contemporary art that captures how a neighbourhood feels—not just how it looks. Through partnerships with more than 20 local painters, printmakers, and illustrators, we’ve translated iconic neighbourhoods in Tokyo and Vancouver into compelling visual narratives. Each piece begins with field research and is shaped through a collaborative design-thinking process.

These aren’t just keepsakes. They’re reminders of why you went and what stayed with you.

Our Creative Process

We aim to evoke a sense of place that feels instantly familiar to those who’ve been, and intriguing to those who haven’t. The process includes interviews, creative consultations, and feedback sessions. It’s a collaborative dialogue between artist and team, informed by field research and close familiarity with the neighbourhood. The result is artwork that blends lived experience with aesthetic clarity.

The Artists

Pleasant Shimo prioritizes underrepresented and emerging voices. Nearly 90% of our contributing artists are women, representing six countries and a broad range of styles—from independent illustrators to graduates of top art programs. Artists are selected through graduation showcases, community referrals, and direct outreach. What unites them is a personal connection to the places they depict and a commitment to turning lived experience into art.

The Team

Brett Kwan, Founder
Brett spent a decade producing international news, including work at CBC Vancouver, TRT World in Turkey, and NHK World in Tokyo. After earning his MBA from McGill University, he founded Pleasant Shimo to merge his passion for storytelling, community, and design.

Tanya Saggi
With a background in editorial illustration and a deep commitment to thoughtful design, Tanya ensures that every piece reflects both artistic intent and emotional depth.

Special thanks to Marko Matijevic for designing Pleasant Shimos’s website.