KENTARO NISHINO [b.1980] is a Japanese painter known internationally for his wildlife art. He grew up in a rich natural environment under the influence of his father who is a nature guide. He started to draw picture from a young age on the recommendation of his mother and he was awarded in a number of international Children's Painting Competitions. While studying at the University of Hawaii, he encountered airbrush techniques and the vivid colors of Hawaii's nature, this is what inspired him to be an artist. Then he moved to the Academy of Art University in San Francisco to study more about art especially basics such as drawing. After returning to Japan, he won the 2nd Art Academy Award Semi Grand Prix which is one of the largest art competitions in Japan.
He began his career as a professional artist from 2005 and held a number of exhibitions. His artworks have been internaionally acclaimed. His works have been turned into many products such as jigsaw puzzles and they have been released all over the world.

His creative process is unique. Before he begins painting, he first handcrafts the frame himself. Looking at each piece of wood, he lets it inspire the image for the artwork. Through his paintings, he expresses the memories of the animals that the tree may have witnessed throughout its lifetime.

He uses locally sourced thinned timber for his frames. He believes that making use of thinned wood helps promote forest regeneration and supports the preservation of healthy, sustainable forests. In doing so, he also believes it contributes to protecting the wildlife that depends on those forests.