A Message From Our Co-Founder

 Hi there,

It all started with someone who wanted to buy an Okinawa Map I created. Fast forward to today, and our Okinawa-inspired products are now reaching people around the world who cherish this small island I call home.

I’m Desmond Liang, co-founder and lead artist of Oki Social. Since moving to Okinawa in 2015, I’ve been pouring my heart into what I call the Okinawa Experience. Many people ask me what the secret is to creating art that sells. My answer is simple, and I’ll share it with you shortly. But first, let me explain why supporting artists is so important.

Unlike your smartphone or car, art doesn’t make life more convenient or efficient. In fact, among all the artworks ever created, only a few become famous or spark movements. Most art remains unseen, and even when it does reach the public, much of it goes unnoticed.

So why do people choose to be artists?

Artists create because art speaks to a deep, wordless part of the human soul. It communicates emotion and connection in a way that transcends language. When we connect with an artist’s work, we reconnect with our own humanity.

Creating art that resonates with people is incredibly challenging. It takes time, experimentation, and unwavering persistence. What you see is just a fraction of what I’ve created—the best 1%. The rest never sees the light of day because I don’t feel a connection to it. If I can’t connect with it, I can’t share that connection with you.

Would you still pursue something if you knew your success rate was only 1%? I would, because I believe in the importance of what I do. I see the joy on people’s faces as they flip through my book, Happiness in Okinawa. I hear from those who tell me that my work is special to them and their loved ones. That’s why I keep creating. It’s worth it.

Here’s my secret to creating art: I don’t draw to make a sale. I draw to make connections, and the sales follow when people feel that connection.

Welcome to Oki Social. The next time you’re looking for a meaningful gift from Okinawa crafted by a local artist, I hope you’ll think of me. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Sincerely,
Desmond Liang