Wednesday Indie Artist Fixx with Kristiana Pärn

wednesday indie artist fixx interview

I’m sure many of you are familiar with Kristiana Pärn’s (Etsy Shop) work or if you don’t recognize the name, you at least remember seeing her work on the front page of Etsy. She is an illustrator and artist for hire who sells prints & stationery featuring her original & adorable creatures.  You can have a chance to learn more about the artist behind the work with this week’s Wednesday Indie Artist Fixx interview.

Tell us a little about yourself and your work.

I’m an Estonian-born artist and illustrator living in Brooklyn, NY.  Most of my work finds its basis in the natural environment, where anthropomorphic characters engage in rest and play.  In so doing, they often take on human-like relationships, both amongst themselves and with the landscape.

How did you get your start?

I started taking animation and graphic design courses in 2006.  Around the same time I began designing album covers for musician friends here in NYC, working primarily in ink and watercolor.  My current work can be traced back to these earlier projects.

What made you decide to take the plunge into the world of creative employment?

One project led to another and after a few months my schedule was filled with commissions.  I’ve continued to be busy ever since.  Each project has been a valuable learning experience, leading to further (and often unforeseen) opportunities.

What inspires you in your art and life?

I’m most captivated by nature–its colors, free forms and strict geometrical structures.  Even a plain wood panel will reveal a story.

Share 3 of your favorite artists of all time.

I have, for quite a while, been captivated by Le Corbusier’s prints, Matisse’s late cut-out collages and the early illustrations of Andy Warhol.

What’s your creative process like?

I often start with a bare wood panel.  I react to the natural textures of the wood grain itself, allowing it to inform the landscape.  I then continue by applying specific color combinations, creating a narrative scene inhabited by various creatures.

What do you like to listen to when working at your art?

I listen to anything from my collection of vinyl records to podcasts and radio.  I’ve also been teaching myself to play ukulele.  This allows a nice break from routine.

Share 3 things that you are crushing on right now from other indie artists/crafters/designers.

I’ve come across so many wonderful things recently.  The best gallery show I’ve seen this past year was Sara Sze’s latest solo exhibit in NYC.  I also admire every single line by artist/illustrator Carson Ellis.  Letterpress stationery by Papersheep Press is another recent discovery.

What’s new or in the works?

I’ve just recently begun illustrating my first children’s book.  Currently, I’m sketching characters and coming up with a general layout.  This will keep me busy for much of the summer.

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