Artist Interview: Dianka Pyzhova

Every month we feature one of our illustrators or photographers. This month we talk to Dianka Pyzhova of the Ukraine. She has a unique illustration style, producing work that is at times whimsical, sophisticated or just plain cute, yet always charming. Her portfolio of vector illustrations contains great holiday concepts, including themed sets of icons perfect for every season.

2410515 © dianka

Dianka Pyzhova

How did you get started in illustration or design?

DP: I’ve been drawing as long as I can remember: with my mom’s lipstick, with crayons on the ground and on the walls. I remember once there was no empty space on the ground and to draw more I had to wash it with water from the garden hose. Later followed formal Art School training – with paint and brushes, which led me finally to learn to complete my illustrations using computer software.

Who or what inspires your work?

DP:  I get my inspiration from everyday things and objects – the amazing curl of a shell, the pattern on a shirt of a stranger, the movement of lights in a lava lamp. But usually I don’t need to do anything to get inspired. Drawing is my life.

3146034 © dianka

What are your favourite images from your collection?

DP: I love all of my work, even those that stay on the paper and never get vectorized. Unfortunately  I have a lot of those because of the lack of time.

What’s your favourite subject matter?

DP: My favorite things to draw are animals and funny cartoon characters. Especially I like the moment when, after choosing color and adding the finer details, my character looks like it comes to life.

2215428 © dianka

If you had to pick just one medium, program or tool to work with from now on, what would it be?

DP: If I needed to choose one tool it would be my favorite simple gel pen; if software –  it’s CorelDraw.

Describe your style. What do you try to capture in your images?

DP: I cannot define my technique. Technically, I never use gradients or transparency; I like to play with colors and leave the outline.

What do you do when you’re not working?

DP: I like to read books, travel and learn about different cultures. I enjoy playing board games with my friends. And I love my dachshund, Elza.

2215437 & 3579575 © dianka

Any tips for someone who’s just starting out in the stock industry?

DP: For the beginners in the industry, I would advise not to start with copying top, successful artists, but to find your own style through analyzing their work and working hard. And the most important – Love what you do

See portfolio

2350883 © dianka