Interview with Illustrator Elwira Pawlikowska

Interview with Illustrator Elwira Pawlikowska
Interview with Illustrator Elwira Pawlikowska
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What are the techniques/tools do you use in creating your work?

No matter if I make traditional or digital art I always begin with a paper and a mechanical pencil. In case of traditional illustrations (which means "the most often") I use watercolors, pen and/or pencil. After scanning I also use Photoshop, mostly to set the right contrasts and colors or add text. In case of digital projects I scan pencil sketches and then draw on a graphic tablet almost just like on a sheet of paper.

3

What is the biggest achievement that you have achieved so far?

Generally speaking the biggest achievement for me is a surprisingly large interest in my works. If I'd had to choose one specific project, I'd say that I'm quite proud of getting an invitation to participate in an exhibition about "Steampunk" (May 2013, Ackland Museum, North Carolina). My illustration was also chosen for a banner promoting the whole collective exhibition. I was even more pleased when almost all my works exhibited there were sold.

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Do you have any creative rituals to help you come up with a concept?

I like to listen to dark, melodic music which puts me in the right (i.e. grim, gloomy, melancholic) mood. I start with "brainstorming": in a relatively short period of time I browse through plenty of photos and illustrations related somehow to my task. I's more about increasing creativity than searching for particular references though. Then I make about dozen of thumbnail sketches just for myself.

4

Which is your favorite piece so far? Why?

I have a special fondness for my watercolor cathedrals, because they reflect my style quite well. I almost don't remember the process of painting them. It was like a "glimmer of talent". I didn't need to make dozens of concept sketches (like I often do) or develop all the details. They're mostly results of a subconscious thinking.

5

Did you always wanted to become an artist?

When I was a child I wanted to be an archeologist or paleontologist as I'm fascinated by the past. In high school I've been more interested in visual arts and decided myself to study architecture. Since then I try to combine my interest in designing buildings with passion for illustrating.

8

Is there any particular experience that influences you on how you approach your craft? If so, what is it?

It's rather a result of several years of continuous contact with drawing. Studying architecture had the biggest influence on that.  During studies I had a broad spectrum of art classes (drawing, painting, sculpting, study of colors etc). Even more important were classes from design and history of architecture. This was a valuable base for practicing at home. It enabled me to paint detailed buildings and landscapes from imagination. Furthermore I got used to show my works to others and to draw benefits from critique.

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