Yana Boyko’s illustrative scenes are a refuge from the world around her

Illustrator Yana Boyko, based in Dnipro, Ukraine, is compelled by the sensory aspect of analogue materials. Prefering traditional, analogue materials over digital tools, Yana “value[s] the tactile sensations of paper, the sound of a pencil, and even the possibility of making a mistake.” Using such materials, Yana has become adept at turning something unexpected into something beautiful. “I enjoy combining different materials and searching for unique and creative combinations.”

Drawn to the familiar and charming scenes of everyday life, especially those from years past, Yana often finds herself gravitating toward vernacular typography, and seeing how it can be recreated on paper. “You can often see old facades filled with signs and advertisements in my works,” she says. “Letters are more than just text; they convey moods and tell stories about places and eras.” Another primary theme of Yana’s work, and a key source of inspiration, is sport, her expressive mark-making conveying a propulsive kineticism, even in static scenes. “Drawing athletes is a challenge,” she details, “capturing their dynamics, movement, the tension of the moment,” utilising the medium in hand to instil an athlete’s sense of focus. 

Living and working in Ukraine during the war, Yana finds her illustrative practice has become somewhat of a refuge. “During the war, illustration has become my escape from reality. When I draw, I can instantly immerse myself in a peaceful world free of violence and cruelty,” she ends. “In difficult moments, I often tell myself: ‘draw a place where you’d like to be right now, and it works as therapy.”