Tokyo-born AIKO interprets the dynamics of sex work, eroticism, and female empowerment through her work. AIKO studied graphic design and filmmaking in Japan, but found her medium when she moved to New York City in 1997 and learned American culture through the language of street art, developing a romantic, mixed-media style inspired by graffiti, advertising, pop art and traditional Japanese aesthetics. The Manhattan-based artist creates work in the studio as well as public spaces around the world.