I was born in Sevastopol, Ukraine, and have loved drawing for as long as I can remember. Though my first degree was in Computer Engineering (M.S.), my heart always belonged to art. I went on to earn a B.A. in Graphic Design from the Kharkiv State Academy of Design and Arts in 2006.

That same year, my husband’s work brought us to the U.S., where we first lived in Bellevue, Washington. We now call Jacksonville, Florida, home—a sunny place where I live with my wonderful family and two growing daughters who inspire me every day.

Over the years, I worked in photography, graphic design, and children’s book illustration—one of my most rewarding projects was illustrating the Middle School and Other Disasters series for Simon & Schuster, which became a New York Times bestseller.

Today, my focus has shifted back to traditional drawing. I create realistic portraits of animals and people using colored pencils and graphite. I find joy in the fine details, the textures, the quiet emotion of a gaze. Whether it’s a beloved pet or a wild creature, I strive to capture their spirit with care and sensitivity.