Preferred Pronoun?
She/her
What’s your favourite thing about your shortlisted project?
I was free to express my vision, and the author was very pleased with the result.
What excites you most about being shortlisted?
I am very happy about this recognition. I've been an illustrator for almost two decades, but I'm only getting started as a book designer. It would be great to get commissions outside Finland as well.
Where do you usually work?
I have a small studio near where I live. It is very important for me to have my own space. I go there almost every day.
How long did it take to complete your project?
On and off for about five months.
What is your dream commission?
A philosophical essay on mushrooms. Or if my drawing was featured in a dream sequence in a David Lynch film.
What’s your favourite thing to draw?
Women/girls, animals and plants.
What is your best tip for other illustrators?
There is no one right way to be an illustrator: you have to trust yourself as an artist and find the most suitable and sustainable way for you. This takes time and insight through mistakes.
What are your plans for the future?
I will make books and art.
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Pauliina MäkeläPauliina
Pauliina MäkeläPauliina_studio