Russian illustrator Larissa Kulik, who’s known on our site as Ann_Mei, has been a Shutterstock contributor since 2009. Her portfolio is relatively small compared to other artists, but her whimsical illustrations have been sensationally popular.
One reason customers love her work is her bold and unique style. Her illustrations convey a dream-like, handcrafted look that’s a perfect match for today’s back-to-basics trends, such as locally grown food, acoustic music, and do-it-yourself crafts.
We interviewed Larissa and asked about her creative process. She told us she gets inspiration from children’s fairy tales, as well as nature and the four seasons. “I love to travel and learn the customs of the places where I go, it also gives me food for creativity,” she says.
She spends a long time on each image, blending hand-drawn and computer art. First she sketches, sometimes on paper and sometimes on the computer. Then she photographs intriguing objects like clouds or trees that she uses as textures. For the final phase, she imports these textures and makes a montage based on her original sketches.
One of her favorite images on Shutterstock has very personal meaning: It’s a collage that includes a mannequin holding a pair of scissors. (You can see it below.) It’s actually a collection of objects dear to her, and it reminds her of herself. “I think you can see everything that I like, all of my essence,” she says.
Each of Larissa’s images shows special care, attention to detail, and a fascinating imagination. See a few examples below, and visit her gallery on Shutterstock.
(All images below © Ann_Mei/Shutterstock)
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