Natalia Spivak
Children's Illustrator
How and why did you decide to pursue illustration as your career?
I chose this profession because I like to create something new, I like to work on characters, composition and story. I also believe it's a valuable job – illustration helps children develop their imagination and personality.
Did you attend art school or undertake any other formal artistic training?
I have an art education at the Boychuk Art Institute in Kyiv. I majored in graphic design.
Where do you currently live and where did you grow up?
I grew up in Kyiv, and I continue to live here
Was creativity part of your childhood?
Curiosity, observation, respect for the individual.
Who or what have been some of your major artistic influences?
I've always loved to draw. Pixar and Disney are the biggest influences on my work right now. I like the brevity and wit in the characters.
Do you keep a sketch book?
I create quick sketches and write short thoughts in my sketchbook.
How many times do you tend to draw a character until you are happy with it?
There is no limit to perfection;) But it is also important to stop in time.
Therefore, I draw 3-5 sketches for the search. And I choose one for final revision.
Do you offer more than one style, if so – talk us through the different approaches and the audience you are targeting for each.
I like to draw in the Pixar style. But I also have a graphic design background, so I like to do flat, highly stylized illustrations as well.
I like experiments, so I am ready to take on tasks that are unusual for me.
What do you hope children take away from your drawings?
Curiosity, observation, respect for the individual. I will hope)
What do you do in your spare time?
I like to go hiking in the mountains and swim.
What is your favourite children’s book and why?
I like the book “The Bremen Musicians” because it is a story of friendship and support.
If you weren’t an illustrator, what would you be doing?
I would be a psychologist... a child psychologist)
