Signs of Salt Spring with Naoko Saito
Food Order Pick Up / Return Dishes Sign at Francis Bread
Naoko Saito is a self-described “doodler” who always had a notebook in her hand growing up. She was born in Salmon Arm, BC, but spent most of her life in Japan. Curious about her place of birth, she came back to Canada as an adult. After exploring Salmon Arm and Kelowna, she wanted to learn farming on a small island. Three years ago, she planned a short work exchange trip to Salt Spring Island and has been here ever since.
The nature of Salt Spring offers inspiration for Naoko’s drawings. She loves “going to the beach, sitting on the driftwood, listening to the sound of water, wind, birds, and making small drawings on the clamshells and stones”.
Naoko’s drawings can be found publicly across the island, mostly in signage. From welcome signs for farms to social distancing notices, Naoko’s drawings add a sense of whimsy and delight to otherwise ordinary messages.
“When I draw, I draw on a whim, and I cooperate joyfully with inspiration. It is as simple as having an idea I want to bring on paper and pleasing myself by doing what I love to do. Drawing has been my hobby ever since I can remember.”
Top: Signs outside Salt Spring Natureworks. Bottom Left: Francis Bread Physical Distance Sign. Bottom Right: ‘Flowers’ Sign at Heyday Farm (Photo by Brette Little).
You can see more of Naoko’s drawings on her Instagram.
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