The Pleasure Quarters Painting

Philippe Couture was born in Drummondville, Canada and raised in Lakeland, Florida where he began drawing and painting at a young age. In 2011, Phil and his wife Rachel moved to Japan, where he studied and painted for 7 years in both the northern region of Aomori and the ancient capital of Kyoto. In 2018, Phil left Asia for Europe and lived in Wrocław, Poland until 2023. He currently resides in Land O' Lakes, Florida. Both 19th century European realism and 17th-19th century Japanese "Ukiyo-e" wood block prints have been a primary influence on Phil's artwork. His work strives to incorporate the Japanese genre of "Bijin-ga" or "pictures of beautiful women." Having lived for 6 years next to Kyoto's oldest active geisha district, Kamishichiken, Phil became fascinated by geisha and maiko culture. His time in Japan made an indelible impression on his life and artwork. Phil's art education consists of drawing and painting from life, studying masterpieces in museums around the world, and employing exercises and techniques taught by classical ateliers. Among his influences are Velasquez, Zorn, Sargent, Degas, Toulouse-Lautrec, Waterhouse, Mucha, Utamaro, and Hiroshige. Aside from studio work, Phil also enjoys painting and drawing outdoors on location. "I enjoy painting and drawing what piques my interest, which usually includes visiting cultures from around the world." Whether it is painting geisha from Japan, holy men from Nepal, temples in Hong Kong or the rocky shores of Greece, Phil’s artwork is an expression of his experiences and what he finds compelling.