LOVE YOUR MISTAKES

LOVE YOUR

MISTAKES

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH VA RYA YAKOVL E VA

1. Can you give us some information on your background?

I was born in Russia where I am currently living. I have received an education in classical arts and cinematography in animation at Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography. I have also graduated from Shar School-studio of Animated Films. My husband and I both have our own respective workshops in our home.

2. Were you always interested in illustration, or was there something else you wanted to do before becoming an illustrator?

The journey to becoming an illustrator was so smooth that I don’t even remember when I first entered the world of illustration. I haven’t received a proper education in illustration; however, due to the similarities between animation and illustration, the transition felt natural.

3. What does the world of illustrated art

mean to you? Do you think it is a way to explore and shape your vision of the world around us?

In the world of illustrated art, I feel like I belong. It’s comforting to be surrounded by people who are interested in you, want to work with you, and give you creative freedom. The fact that I get to become financially stable doing what I love is really the best.

4. How would you describe your illustration style?

I wouldn’t say I have a particular style. I am constantly experimenting with different textures and art styles. Lines, spots, and multi-figure compositions are frequently found in my works though.

5. What is one message you would like your audience to know?

We should love our mistakes. It is only through mistakes that we find out what makes us special.

6. Your work is so unique. Can you describe how you developed your style?

I was able to explore myself only after finishing my studies. I decided to relax and stop conforming to the rules set in art and began to draw on a daily basis. I began to develop the fluidity of my hand and the plasticity of my ideas.

7. What inspires you the most when illustrating? How is it feeding into your worK?

Personally, illustration is a form of relaxation, a break from working on animated movies. I

find the most inspiration in the projects that I’ve been given, especially when I am working on several projects at once. You could say the inspiration for the projects comes from the project itself.

8. What types of illustration projects do you enjoy working on?

I prefer projects in which I have creative liberty. I don’t usually take on projects in which the clients have preconceived ideas of what they want and just need someone to execute it, unless the idea genuinely interests me.

9. How is the illustration industry in your country? What are some trends or visual styles you appreciate in your country?

I think the illustration industry is starting to gain popularity in Russia.

10. Some of your illustrations have been used in video animations. What are your views on the future of illustration in the digital era?

I believe that analog art is timeless and will always be appreciated.

11. How do you discover new techniques and tools?

I am surrounded by extremely talented people who help me improve in all aspects. My husband, Stas Metelsky, is more advanced in illustration than I am and supports me by giving me feedback on my work and teaching me new techniques. My friends also help me step out of my comfort zone.

12. Are there crazy projects you would like to work on in the future?

I would like to take a break from animation for sure. I would like to work on a project relating to a theater production or any other large scale projects. Illustrating books sounds good too.