Introducing Marina Kondrakhina, a freelance illustrator based in Toronto, Canada








Introducing Marina Kondrakhina, a freelance illustrator based in Toronto, Canada. She constantly finds inspiration all around her, but especially in children; in their behaviour creativity, energy, and in their ways of dealing with emotions. Here's where we found out more...
When did you start illustrating?
I doodled here and there as far back as I remember but I began to think of Illustration as a profession five years ago when my family moved to Canada. That time I saw opportunities more clearly and decided to act.
Who has been the most supportive in your illustration career, perhaps your teacher, family, friends?
My husband and daughter. He always takes care of things to give me time to finish projects, and she is my personal most honest critique and advisor.
Did you always think art was something that was going to be a major part of your life?
I have dreamed of being an artist since childhood... But something went wrong and I got a master's degree in Mechanical Engineering. Nevertheless, creating and exploring art have always been the greatest sources of enjoyment.
What is your favourite subject matter to illustrate?
Children, how they interact and explore a world of emotions and relations.
How would you describe your style?
I would say my illustration are fun child-ish cartoon-ish drawings .
What is your favourite collaboration to date?
Recently I worked with a Canadian lady on a book dedicated to her son. She was happy with everything I did. No changes, no comments, only positive feedback on every stage of creation. The one of a kind client:)
What interested you about being represented by Illo Agency?
The Agency’s portfolio of artists is incredible! I’m excited to see my name among them. Illo’s representation is an opportunity to work with a team of professionals, to get their support and guidance, and, as a result, become a professional.
Do you have a favourite author, film director, or designer?
Nope
Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us?
Not yet
Do you listen to podcasts? If so, do you have a favourite?
I’m at the very beginning of learning French, so French podcasts are my everyday companions.
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.
When did you start illustrating?
I doodled here and there as far back as I remember but I began to think of Illustration as a profession five years ago when my family moved to Canada. That time I saw opportunities more clearly and decided to act.
Who has been the most supportive in your illustration career, perhaps your teacher, family, friends?
My husband and daughter. He always takes care of things to give me time to finish projects, and she is my personal most honest critique and advisor.
Did you always think art was something that was going to be a major part of your life?
I have dreamed of being an artist since childhood... But something went wrong and I got a master's degree in Mechanical Engineering. Nevertheless, creating and exploring art have always been the greatest sources of enjoyment.
What is your favourite subject matter to illustrate?
Children, how they interact and explore a world of emotions and relations.
How would you describe your style?
I would say my illustration are fun child-ish cartoon-ish drawings .
What is your favourite collaboration to date?
Recently I worked with a Canadian lady on a book dedicated to her son. She was happy with everything I did. No changes, no comments, only positive feedback on every stage of creation. The one of a kind client:)
What interested you about being represented by Illo Agency?
The Agency’s portfolio of artists is incredible! I’m excited to see my name among them. Illo’s representation is an opportunity to work with a team of professionals, to get their support and guidance, and, as a result, become a professional.
Do you have a favourite author, film director, or designer?
Nope
Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us?
Not yet
Do you listen to podcasts? If so, do you have a favourite?
I’m at the very beginning of learning French, so French podcasts are my everyday companions.
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.