While people-watching is a lovely pastime most of us have dabbled in, have you ever given dog-watching a try? Dogs, just like people, come in a wide variety of personalities, quirks, and intriguing characteristics, and that is what Tokyo-based illustrator Megumi Yamazaki loves about dog-watching!

In fact, so great is her love for her hobby that she turned it into “My Homies” — a collection of caricatures inspired by our favourite four-footed companions. From her favourite foods, her different artistic expression, to a plush doll with a strong presence, the illustrator behind AWW Issue 5 – Beautiful Souls and Food’s Calendar and Game shares the many inspirations behind her work. Dive into her illustrated world where “dogs know everything”.

AWW: Tell us a little bit about yourself! What do you like to do in your free time? How did you come up with the idea of “My Homies”?

Megumi Yamazaki: In my free time, I eat delicious food. I especially like Chinese food.

At first, I drew only dog characters. Eventually, I felt sorry for the dog because it seemed lonely, so I made it some friends.

AWW: Which one of your illustrated homies is the best representation of yourself? Why?

Megumi: The Dog character is the best representation of myself. Dogs symbolize freedom, being laid back, and delicate. Because of these traits, the Dog has a similar personality to myself. Drawing the Dog gives me a sense of freedom.

AWW: The slogan “dogs know everything” pops up many times in your work! Can you tell us the story behind this phrase and what it means for you?

Megumi: My hobby is observing dogs. One day I thought, "It would be interesting if a dog knew everything about the world." That was the trigger and my inspiration has continued to grow since then.

AWW: When creating your calendar feature in AWW Issue 5, how would you describe your creative process?

Megumi: I drew illustrations of the everyday life of the homies. I hope that readers will feel happy when they see my illustrations.

AWW: We have seen your incredible caricatures on t-shirts, stickers, plush toys, cookies, and trinkets! Which item is your favourite?

Megumi: It's a big dog doll. It has quite a strong presence and looks very real, almost like it's going to start moving at any moment!

To find out more about Megumi Yamazaki, please visit the artist’s IG account  | @megumi_.yamazaki
All images provided by Megumi Yamazaki.