Q: Can you share the first time an opportunity—like a residency, pop-up, or an exhibition, made you feel like a real artist? What was that moment like for you?

A: If we don’t count children’s competitions where I won small prizes and candies, my first exhibition as a mature artist took place in the capital of Ukraine in 2016. I had just moved there and was starting my journey as an independent artist. My work was part of a group show, but it had its own space and my name beneath it.

Seeing my piece on the wall of a large gallery, surrounded by people who came specifically to see the art, was surreal. It was the first time I truly felt like I had a voice of my own. That moment gave me the confidence to keep going – and since then, I’ve continued to participate in exhibitions across Ukraine, the U.S., and internationally.

Q: Can you share a recent project or experience that helped reignite your passion during a creative block? What about it sparked new possibilities for your work?

A: About a year ago, I hit a creative block that felt deeper than usual –I wasn’t just short on ideas, I had no desire to create at all. It was especially unsettling because I’ve been drawing almost my entire life, and suddenly I felt disconnected from something that used to come so naturally. After a few weeks of this, I realized I couldn’t just wait for inspiration to return – I had to actively seek it. I started with small steps: visiting a museum, picking up a new art book, having conversations with artist friends. Slowly, I began to feel reconnected with the creative world.

What really shifted things for me was the realization that art isn’t limited to a single medium. If I was feeling stuck in one area – like designing a new clothing collection – I could explore others. That curiosity led me to a ceramics studio. If you’ve ever worked with clay, you know that it’s a very meditative process. After molding just a few pieces, I began adding drawings to them. It felt like my illustrations had found a new home. This experience reminded me that creativity is fluid – and that sometimes, the best way to get unstuck is to let go of expectations and try something completely different. It opened up a new path for me, and I found another way to bring art into everyday life.

Q: Have you ever stumbled on a creative boost by accident - something small that unexpectedly changed how you make art? If not, is there something new you’re curious to explore?

A: One of the most unexpected creative shifts in my life happened right after I moved to the U.S. Before that, I had never done digital illustration. But just two weeks after I arrived, a full-scale invasion began in Ukraine. For a while, I was glued to the news, constantly worried about my family.

Eventually, I realized I couldn’t keep living in that constant state of anxiety – I needed some way to cope. Since I had just moved and only had two suitcases with me, I didn’t have any of my usual art supplies – no paints or brushes. But I did have an iPad, so I started drawing digitally, mostly just to distract myself from the news. That’s how my series of patriotic illustrations was born – almost accidentally, as a way to process everything happening back home. Through the sale of that artwork – including stickers, t-shirts, and accessories – I was able to raise over $7,000 to support the Ukrainian army, with help from my team. My illustrations were also featured in major Ukrainian media outlets, by the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, and even by well-known YouTube bloggers.

Q: How do you define ‘success’ as an artist, and has that definition changed since you first began pursuing your craft?

A: At the beginning, I saw success as external recognition – likes, compliments, or being featured. But over time, that changed. Now, success means creating consistently, staying true to my values, and connecting with people through my work. I’m so happy when I meet someone wearing my clothes – then I feel like I’m doing something worthwhile. If my art brings meaning to someone’s day, that’s success to me. Making a living is part of it, but it’s really about building a sustainable, honest relationship with creativity.

Stay curious, show up even when it’s hard, and focus on building real connections. I know how hard that can be, especially for introverts. But doors don’t open unless you knock. I truly recommend seeking out opportunities yourself – apply for open calls and residencies, reach out to exhibition organizers, and don’t be afraid to talk about yourself and your art. And don’t forget: your voice matters, your story is unique, and the world needs what only you can create!

Q: What would you tell an artist chasing their first big break? What mindset or approach made all the difference when you were in their shoes?

A: Progress only starts when you take the first step. Don’t wait for a special day or the perfect mood to validate your work – start exploring, creating, sharing, and learning with what you have right now. The biggest shift for me was realizing that consistency matters more than perfection, and that opportunities often come from unexpected places.