ira purdenko, dog-loving and inspired by all things in nature

Ira Purdenko is a Ukrainian illustrator and surface designer based in Poland. Inspired by nature, animals, and life’s simple joys, she creates warm and cozy illustrations. As an established fine artist, Ira combines traditional and decorative art techniques with digital illustration. In her spare moments, she practices yoga, walks in the woods with her dog, and reads books — sometimes all at once, which leaves her dog both impressed and confused. 

Here's what she has to say with illo's Q&A...

What would you say is your best piece of work / collaboration to date, and why?

My favorite project so far is my recent picture book The Enchanted Forest and The Hollow Tree, written by Nora Calcaneo. I especially enjoyed working on it because Nora created such a magical world —filled with flowers, gnomes, and fairies—that aligned perfectly with my love for whimsical storytelling and forest-inspired scenes. It felt incredibly natural to bring that universe to life. This book was also my first officially published picture book, which makes it even more meaningful to me. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity and proud of the result.

Where do you like to go to be inspired, or how do you find your inspiration?

I find inspiration in life’s simplest joys—nature, animals, and all the beautiful little things that surround me. Honestly, I feel inspired most of the time! It can be as small as noticing a handmade ceramic mug in a coffee shop, a cluster of flowers in someone’s garden, or ducks waddling through the park. Those quiet, everyday moments spark my imagination and often send me reaching for my sketchbook. From there, the rest of the story unfolds on its own.

Is there anything you’d say you would be a good advocate for? Please elaborate if so.

I’d be a good advocate for finding beauty in everyday life and encouraging creativity in small moments. I believe that inspiration is everywhere — hidden in the quiet, fleeting details of our daily routines. In today’s fast-paced world, I think it’s more important than ever to slow down and reconnect with the present. Through my illustrations, I aim to capture that feeling of stillness and wonder — to show that magic doesn’t only live in faraway places, but also in the ordinary, if we choose to notice it. I hope my work encourages both children and adults to live more mindfully and create from a place of joy.

What would you say sets you apart from other illustrators? Something you feel is unique to you.

I think what sets me apart is the emotional atmosphere I try to create in my work. My illustrations are not just about how things look—but how they feel. I focus on softness, warmth, and storytelling through quiet details that invite the viewer to slow down and step into a moment. I also have a deep love for combining traditional aesthetics—like watercolor textures and cozy, hand-drawn lines—with modern tools. That blend allows me to create work that feels both nostalgic and fresh. I think my background in design helps too—I always pay close attention to composition, balance, and how an illustration will live on the page or in a product.

If you have done paid commissions prior to joining the agency, what would you say is something that clients repeatedly come to you for (up to now)?

Before joining the agency, I worked with various clients—including a home decor brand—where I developed a strong sense of visual storytelling, mood, and decorative design. One thing clients often mention is my flexibility. I’m able to adapt to different styles and briefs while still maintaining a cohesive, thoughtful aesthetic. Whether it's whimsical children’s illustrations, elegant pattern design, or seasonal artwork for products, I always focus on the emotional tone and intention behind each piece.

How would you describe your style?

My style is whimsical, warm, and narrative-driven. I focus on capturing emotion and atmosphere through gentle colors, soft textures, and thoughtful details. I enjoy blending digital techniques with the charm of traditional media—especially watercolor and gouache—to create illustrations that feel handcrafted and timeless. Whether it’s a picture book scene or a decorative pattern, I always aim to evoke a sense of calm, curiosity, and quiet joy.

Please give a scenario of a project that would mean the world to you, if you were offered it - something that connects to something meaningful to you.

A dream project for me would be illustrating a picture book about intergenerational connection—perhaps a gentle, magical story of a grandparent and child exploring nature together through the seasons. They might share small traditions: planting seeds, telling stories by candlelight, pressing flowers into books. It would be a celebration of slow living, family bonds, and the quiet knowledge passed down through everyday rituals. The kind of book that encourages children to notice the world around them, ask questions, and feel safe in wonder. It would mean the world to me to bring such a story to life—something rooted in warmth, memory, and the kinds of gentle moments that often stay with us the longest.

Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us?

I am about to start writing and illustrating a picture book inspired by my own rescued dog—who has heterochromia and the most beautiful, soulful eyes. I imagine a gentle adventure story rooted in themes of belonging, kindness, and noticing beauty in difference. The dog might help others in small ways or rediscover something that’s been lost to a village—teaching children the value of empathy, trust, and finding home where you least expect it.

Finally, if you were to illustrate a book related to a real life person, who would that be?

I would love to illustrate a book about Jane Goodall. Her lifelong dedication to animals, conservation, and kindness has always inspired me deeply.

If you’d like more info, please contact: [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.