Where it all started
I am an author and illustrator of children’s books, living in Montreal, Canada. I was born and grew up in Moscow, the beautiful capital of Russia. For as long as I remember, I was obsessed with drawing. When I was a kid all I did was doodle different animals (never people!), mostly horses. I have a soft spot for these creatures. I find them gracious, elegant, and simply breathtaking! I think the horse was the first thing I’ve ever drawn in a conscience age. Seeing that I don’t let a pencil out of my hands, my parents have sent me soon to an art school. It was a wonderful experience, where I got great knowledge in art and also, wonderful friends for life.
Here comes the writing
In the meantime, I got interested in writing. Honestly, I owe it to my best friend, who was in love with writing since I met her in elementary school. She was inspiring, and soon I got drawn into writing and we started to collaborate and come up with fiction stories together. Till now it’s one of my happiest moments in life, and the best memories of my childhood!
Career dilemma
When I finished high school, I faced a common dilemma of choosing a profession. It was the moment when Frozen by Disney came out, 2013. I went to see the movie in the cinema and was amazed by Elsa’s ice castle. I was so moved, that for the first time I knew what I want to do for a living.
What about studies?
So, I entered Laval University (Quebec City, Canada) to study animation. I have never regretted this choice. I was in love with my studies! The first time I animated a jumping ball I felt like a magician. I was over the moon!
And here we are
However, animation didn’t quite work out for me in the future. But I still loved the opportunities it gives you: the opportunity to create a funny character, to tell a story, and most importantly, to send a message to your viewers. Entertainment is great, it’s even better when it can teach you something new, something important, when it contains a moral. This is why I started my career as a children’s book writer. I write kind stories and encouraging fairy tails trying my best to make my books not only fun to look at, but also educating and leaving a good kindhearted « aftertaste ».
How it is going
For my books, I draw illustrations traditional way, on paper with watercolor. I think soft watercolor gives proper childish tender vibes. I never quit painting different animals for fun, with watercolor and acrylic. It remains a good practice and often inspiration for the future characters of my books.
My name is Victoria!