Lera Bolkonska is a London-based illustrator from Ukraine, working with mixed traditional media in a loose, expressive style that embraces raw emotion and spontaneity. Her work centers on people and animals, highlighting overlooked moments with subtle humour while exploring inner worlds, distinct personalities, and human psychology. We chat with Lera to learn more about her inspirations and hopes for the future.
Hi Lera! What first attracted you to your craft?
What attracted me to illustration is the way it allows me to see visual art not just as a depiction or self-expression, but as a tool for storytelling, creating a narrative, and visual communication. I love creating images that convey emotions, personality, and moments that words alone can’t capture. I also enjoy the freedom to explore any subject or media; being an illustrator feels like being an explorer, discovering new ideas and ways to express them all the time.
What inspired you to start your own creative business?
Watching other artists do amazing work was inspirational, but I also felt a sense of jealousy. That’s when I knew I wanted to start my own creative business and communicate through illustration.
What is your favourite aspect of running your own creative business?
I love brainstorming new ideas, observing the world around me, and having the freedom to express my thoughts and stories exactly how I want through illustration.
What element of the design process do you enjoy the most?
I really enjoy the research and preparation stage of creating my products. This includes exploring similar works, understanding my audience, collecting references and creating prototypes of my characters. I then develop mood-boards with colour palettes and media choices.
What is a unique characteristic of your cards?
My cards are based on original, hand-drawn illustrations that combine emotional storytelling with subtle humour. Each design is inspired by real observations of people and animals, making every card feel personal, expressive, and full of character.
Where do you find / source your inspiration for designs?
I find inspiration in everyday un-staged moments, people, and animals. I also draw from visual art, films, dance, and instrumental music, all of which spark ideas and shape the mood of my illustrations.
Do you have any favourite items in the collection?
A cat with a cuppa greeting card! It was inspired by Mary Poppins elegance. Also white cats on a red carpet greeting card; I met those cats chilling in the sunshine while travelling in Egypt.
Cat Lady with Cuppa
Cats on Red Rug
What are your hopes for the future and where would you like to take your design career?
I have plenty of ideas for the future! I’m interested in live event illustration, capturing special moments, people, and pets on the spot. I’d love to develop artwork for niche packaging like wine, chocolate, or tea. Even collaborate with brands on marketing campaigns, create brand characters, and paint interiors or window displays.
I’m also passionate about illustration for social advertising related to mental health,
psychology, feminism, and human relationships.
Ultimately, I hope to have gallery representation and create large, emotionally and psychologically charged paintings.