Anastasia Zabashkina, a wonderful addition to the Illo roster!

I'm sure you'll agree that Anastasia Zabashkina is a wonderful addition to the Illo roster > a children's book illustrator from Russia. Her artworks have a wonderful warmth and great character, which could be due to Anastasia maintaining a sense of handiwork, by using brushes and textures that imitate traditional materials.

Do keep reading, as I'm sure like us, you'll want to find out more...

When did you start illustrating

I have always loved to draw, since childhood. First memories about creativity - my sister and I sit on a bunk bed and we draw on the ceiling :)
 
Who has been the most supportive in your illustration career, perhaps your teacher, family, friends?

I am very grateful to my mother, she always supported my sister and me in choosing a profession and helped in every possible way. At the age of six mother took us to an art studio, and then supported us in choosing a college and university afterwards. Thank you, Mom!
 
Did you always think art was something that was going to be a major part of your life?

Yes, I always knew that my life would be connected with creativity. I can't imagine myself in another profession at all :) Drawing is the best job for me!
 
What is your favourite subject matter to illustrate?

I love children's illustration! I like to work on the format of a picture book, creating touching and funny stories. But I don't limit myself to one theme — I like to try new things!
 
How would you describe your style?

It's hard for me to judge my own style. My style changes and evolves over time, just like me. I really enjoy exploring new ways to create art. I try to grow with each new project, to hone the technique, to try new things.
 
What is your favourite collaboration to date?

Recently, I had two projects that I am particularly proud of: the book "Great to be a dad", series of illustrations for the mobile application "Saga sleep" and several illustrations for the "Storytime" magazine.

What interested you about being represented by Illo Agency?

I was very impressed with how bright and individual artists are represented in illo. I already knew some artists and, in addition, the illo team includes one of my favorite illustrators - Giulia Pintus.
 
Do you have a favourite author, film director, or designer?

Oh, yes! I love to watch authors of the most different creative directions, but art of cinema is the main source of my inspiration! These directors are among my favourite: Wes Anderson, Christopher Nolan, Quentin Tarantino, Sofia Coppola, David Fincher, Guy Ritchie, Hayao Miyazaki (this list can be extended indefinitely).
 
Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us?

At this moment I don't have time to create personal projects, but there are a few unrealized ideas for picture books, which I will definitely return to.
 
Do you listen to podcasts? If so, do you have a favourite?

I have a few favourite russian-language podcasts that I listen to for drawing: "First illustrator’s podcast" and "What pies are baked about".

If you have any questions, or a specific project in mind, please do get in touch: [email protected]
at illo agency we pride ourselves in representing a collation of global illustrators, distinctly diverse in creativity and uniquely celebrated by like-minded clients across a range of commercial markets.