Illustrator Svitlana from Ukraine Interview

Illustrator Svitlana

Svitlana is a freelance illustrator from Kyiv, Ukraine. She has a unique form of illustration which is very clean and easy to understand.

What made you want to become an illustrator or artist?

I have been drawing for all my life. As long as I can remember. When I was a kid, I asked my Mom to take me to a drawing class, and she did. When somebody asked me what I want to become when I grow up, I always answered: an artist. Then I realized there are lots of variations of art and illustration is one of them. I had no «turning point». What I do is just what I always dreamed about.

Can you remember some of your earliest influences?

Well, when I was learning how to draw I had even no internet access. What I could see were the reproductions of famous paintings in my textbooks. So the only person who influenced my manner was the drawing class teacher. Even now, having my own technique and being a professional, I understand she was really cool. I was trying to imitate her and that’s how it all started.

Which of your projects has been most important to developing your personal style?

Non commercial projects. That’s how I call all the illustrations I made for myself. When you take an order, you have «frames and borders» of what your client wants to see. When your only «client» is your inspiration, that’s where development starts. I spent long evenings inventing characters and styles, drawing everything I could imagine. There were people, animals, cars, everything I could see around. And what you see now is a product of those times.

Would you say that keeping things simple is your strongest skill?

Sure, I adore minimalism in everything: life, work, relationship, art. I believe there’s no need to «overload» my illustrations. Simplicity is beautiful.

Which illustrators or artists working today do you admire the most?

Malika Favre

Her minimalism is just what I learn to use. I have my own attitude to colors, but her style inspires me a lot.

I also admire Maite Franchi. Her art is full of life. It’s bright and kind, at least that’s how I feel> In my works you can definitely see her influence.

What criteria do you use to critique your work?

If I can admit that’s my work: publish it, send it to a client, write my name on an illustration, then it’s good. If I can’t show it to the world, that’s not good enough yet. It means I need to work more or even leave this illustration for some time.

How much attention do you pay to the feedback of others on your work?

Other people’s recognition inspires and motivates me a lot. When someone writes to me «that’s cool» I’m sincerely happy, grateful and want to work even more. I almost don’t get negative feedback from my friends and followers. People who surround me really love my illustrations and that is what gives me the strength to move forward every single day.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

Be yourself, trust yourself, do what you LOVE and don’t listen to anybody who would say you cannot. You CAN! I guess that’s a good piece of advice for any young illustrator. Do what you love and you will succeed!