Q: Your work is full of playful characters combined with a very retro comic aesthetic. What draws you to this combination, and how do you use it to tell meaningful stories in your illustrations?

A: I’ve been drawn to retro visuals since I was a child. My grandmother’s house was filled with USSR children’s books that featured amazing illustrations, and I also remember flipping through collectible postcards with fine art paintings. I loved looking at the characters and imagining their stories. I started appreciating comics early on as well, especially Mickey Mouse magazines. The world created by those comics was mesmerizing, and I often reread them. The visual language of those comics, with their expressive faces and postures, could convey so much without the need for words. I think these childhood influences have shaped how I choose to tell stories in my illustrations today.

The playful characters and retro aesthetic allow me to create a sense of nostalgia and fun. The combination of these elements creates a visual language that is both accessible and engaging, inviting viewers to connect with my illustrations on an emotional level.

Q: What was your journey like transitioning from studying Visual Communication to becoming a freelance illustrator? What did you take away from your time in an Art University?

A: The transition from studying Visual Communication to becoming a freelance illustrator was challenging. It took me a few years to navigate the business side of freelancing and build my confidence. The Visual Communication course I took was focused mainly on graphic design, but my tutors recognized my strength in illustration and encouraged me to pursue it further. The course taught me the principles of creative thinking, how to research information, and how to communicate those findings visually. These skills have been incredibly helpful , since they can be applied across many different creative fields.

Q: As a freelance illustrator, how do you stay inspired and maintain a balance between commissioned work and personal creative projects?

A: Staying inspired at all times isn’t easy, especially since life often gets in the way. Lately, I’ve been questioning where my inspiration comes from. Novelty, a challenge, or a sense of purpose spark my creativity the most these days. When it comes to balancing commissioned work and personal projects, the medium I choose plays a significant role. All of my commissions are done digitally, and I never use any other mediums for that. On the other hand, personal work gives me the freedom to explore any medium I want, which helps keep my creativity flowing.

Q: You’ve been nominated for a Top Talent award by Adobe Design Achievement Awards. How did that recognition impact your career, and what did it mean to you as an artist?

A: Being nominated for a Top Talent award by the Adobe Design Achievement Awards came at a pivotal moment, right after I finished university. At that time, it served as a powerful validation of my work and the path I was beginning to take as an artist. While it didn’t have an immediate impact on my career, since I was just starting out, it gave me a sense of confidence and reassurance that my creative journey was on the right track.

Q: Having lived in both Siberia and India must have exposed you to diverse cultures and aesthetics. How has this cultural shift influenced your artistic style and storytelling?

A: Experiencing vastly different cultures is always a journey of growth. Adapting to life in India and navigating its unique rhythms challenged me in unexpected ways, encouraging me to reflect deeply on my identity and connection to my roots. While this personal shift hasn’t changed the visual elements of my work, it has inspired me to seek depth and authenticity in my storytelling.

Q: What advice would you give to emerging illustrators who want to develop their own distinct voice while navigating diverse projects and mediums?

A: To find your creative voice, I believe it’s important to trust yourself. Pay attention to what you’re naturally drawn to, the topics and techniques that excite you . These choices become part of your voice. I believe that the most amazing things in art come when you don’t force them, but instead let your creativity flow naturally.