Ivona Mitankina

I’ve always been drawn to the beauty in ordinary moments, the kind that are easily overlooked in our busy lives. Turning them into illustrations became a way to capture and celebrate those unnoticed moments.

I hope my illustrations encourage viewers to pause and notice the small details around them. Maybe they’ll be reminded of something familiar in their own lives. I try to create space for people to connect with their own memories and emotions through these everyday scenes.

One small but meaningful moment for me is observing the light in my kitchen while preparing coffee. The way it shifts and plays across surfaces often carries a quiet spark that inspires me for the rest of the day and I try to bring that feeling into my work.

My process begins with observation. I notice details like gestures, light, objects and I often capture them with a quick photo on my phone or simply in my mind so I don’t lose the feeling of that moment. Then I make a digital sketch to explore composition and from there, I refine the illustration digitally, choosing colors, textures, and lines, always aiming to preserve the atmosphere that first inspired me.

Working across different areas of art and design has taught me to appreciate versatility and to draw inspiration from a variety of sources. Music from the ’80s, films, and fashion often spark ideas that influence the colors, moods, and characters in my illustrations. Focusing on digital illustration allows me to develop a personal visual language while letting these inspirations subtly inform my work.

These qualities emerge naturally. A friend once told me that the female characters in my illustrations remind her of my mother, playful and curious as a child, yet elegant and poised. She passed away five years ago from breast cancer. That memory, along with the warmth and elegance she embodied, naturally finds its way into my work. While I don’t consciously plan for these traits, they reflect the emotions and moments that inspire me most.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue exploring everyday moments in new ways, experimenting with color, composition, and atmosphere. I’d love to see my illustrations featured in magazines or on product packaging, such as cosmetics, where they can bring a touch of warmth and personality. Ultimately, I want to keep creating art that feels intimate, warm, and relatable, pieces that allow viewers to pause, reflect, and connect with the small, beautiful moments of life.