..................His fascination with Japan began long ago. In 2004, a monograph of his artworks to date was published under the title "Mario A. The Japanese Artist." Renowned art critic Ishihara Kentaro wrote in his accompanying essay that, "To know Japan, one has to first of all identify with it," and confirmed that Mario really has succeeded in it....................He adds that his ultimate goal is "to become immortal with my art in Japan." Mario emphasizes that he really appreciates the Japanese art world.

............His new series of controversial oil paintings will certainly cause a stir, which he calls "Japan=Pink." "For me," Mario says, "Japan indeed is pink."............He just started the first of the paintings a few days ago. A white canvas shows an image of the Japanese flag.

The rising sun is, naturally, a pastel pink.