Meet Polina Doroshenko, who illustrated "Maechka", "What is a vacation", "Stephania's first lace"

Illustration is a child's dream or ...?

Most likely, this is an intuitive way. Since childhood, she made small books, imagining herself as a teacher of junior classes. Then she wanted to be a fashion designer and a composer, in a single stream it grew into the profession of an illustrator. :)

What inspires you?

I am very inspired by talented people and strong works. Under the impression, you always want to do more and better. This is a kind of "pinochek" for yourself. I still always dream of traveling more - it's very energizing, and a creative person needs fresh perception and "exploration" of the eyes, so to speak.

Which of the published books is your favorite?

To be honest, there is no favorite — everyone has favorite moments/decisions and there are things where I can see what could have been worked on more, even changed. This does not always apply to the illustration, sometimes I see that a different paper should have been chosen. I consider it important to be able to silence self-criticism and enjoy the result - I'm just learning this. You always want to do better with each subsequent book, but there is no way without love.

Polina, you are a well-known illustrator in Ukraine. Hard to break through?

I am convinced more than once that the start is very important. And in my case it was successful. Here it is both a matter of chance and a lot of work. When work goes with passion and I listen to intuition, everything comes together. It is more difficult to maintain a level and be able to transform to new tasks. And also to experience setbacks and move on, grow. In any case, you should always do what you like and not try to be someone else.

What is your attitude to the "Maechka" series?

I think that there is not much kindness, love and support, for me the series about Majechka is about that. As an illustrator, it is nice to be a part of her story, a kind of guide, and to see how Majechka unites those around her. It seems to me that such an example is a sign of a healthy, cultured society where everyone has a family.

Who is your favorite character?

With Majechka, I like to hang out - Lord, Little Ru, Zina, Dosya. I think I can imagine their character more. I remember how I liked to draw Ginger. She has such graphic small dots in coloring.

Stefania - did you name your daughter after the Heroine of your book?

The husband chose the name for Steph, I had an option in case it was a boy. But we liked such a coincidence, I think it's not for nothing. :) I wonder how Stefania herself will react. I sometimes imagine how we will write and draw a sequel!

Two artists in the family — support or competition?

I like that we are both creative - it's about understanding. But at the same time, we work in completely different fields (illustration, sculpture) - it's about freedom. I don't think I could live with another illustrator under the same roof, I am the main illustrator in our family.

What do you dream of illustrating?

Now I want to make a book for my daughter. I dream of composing and illustrating myself.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

One of the most important tasks for the next 5 years is to organize the work process in the family / work balance. I see myself enthusiastic, active and more consistent. And, well, from the "I'll definitely start on Monday" category, it's finally devoting proper time to sports.