FASHION ILLUSTRATION

By Eva Fydrych

Lena

Name: Lena Ker

Occupation: Fashion Illustrator
Country: Russia

FASHION STUDIO: How did you start fashion illustration and what inspired you to get into the fashion industry?

LENA: I always drew, from early childhood (as all children do) but I think I've always been drawing "fashion": girls, clothing, shoes, hats. And of course I decided that I would be a fashion designer! :) I drew sketches of clothes, studied fashion magazines ... but unfortunately, I liked to draw more than to sew. I said goodbye to the dream of being a designer.

At school and university, I always made sketches in my notebooks. At the same time I finished a special course and worked as a stylist, then costume designer... and eventually I decided to become an illustrator.

FASHION STUDIO: What do you consider your biggest achievement so far?

LENA: There are many small accomplishments, personal victories, it is not so interesting ...I hope that all achievements are in the future!!

FASHION STUDIO: How long does it take you to create one drawing?

LENA: It is very different every time! I can draw artwork in one evening sometimes, and at other times I'm suffering a few days over a simple sketch.

FASHION STUDIO: Where do you get your inspiration from?

LENA: I usually draw when I'm in a good mood! It is very important for me :) The main inspiration is beauty: beautiful people, beautiful photos and images, and of course, fashion!

FASHION STUDIO: Which fashion illustrators do you admire and why?

LENA: Retro illustrators, such as: Bernard Blossac, Charles Gates Sheldon, Antonio Lopez. Illustrators who create now - probably David Downton. Because their illustrations are simple and elegant. Amazing!

FASHION STUDIO: Tell us a little bit more about your blog: Artworks by L.K. What is the concept behind it?

LENA: I publish mainly drawings on my blog. I try to use a lot of a variety of materials, some photos, shows that have inspired me. But just a little! I want that those who like it, don't have to look for a picture among the masses of photos, text... The simple design is not distracting attention. That's why I chose illustration only. 

FASHION STUDIO: How would you define fashion?

LENA: For me fashion is something collective. No, it is not bad! But more important - style. I think this is the continuation of fashion.

FASHION STUDIO: Who is you favourite clothing designer and why?

LENA: I like designers who create fashion houses: Nina Ricci, Alberta Feretti, Gucci, Moschino. The reason is the same as in a case of fashion illustrators: beauty and elegance!

FASHION STUDIO: Who is your style icon?

LENA: Audrey Hepburn - one of my favorite actresses, I think she was perfect. Sarah Jessica Parker- in well-known TV series, I just admire her.

FASHION STUDIO: If you could choose one place to travel to right now, where would it be?

LENA: India! Or one of the countries in Eastern Europe!! Absolutely different place in the world. Different cultures! But honestly, I can`t choose. It's a good question :)

FASHION STUDIO: What are your future plans? Where do you see yourself in a couple of years time?

LENA: Finish university and become a famous illustrator :). But I would like to have time not only to draw. I want to engage in marketing, or social activities, and continue my education as well...

FASHION STUDIO: Thank you for your time. It was a pleasure talking to you.

All illustrations by Lena Ker.

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