One of my favorite parts of putting together the next issue of Anthology was looking at the work of illustrators for a story. During my research, I came across and instantly loved the work of Riikka Sormunen. Sormunen, originally from Helsinki, Finland, now spends her days creating illustrations for publications like The New York Times and Image magazine from her home in Canada.
Sormunen started her career as an illustrator at the age of 19, when she was commissioned for her first magazine illustration job. The textures she creates in the clothing, textiles, and accessories add a level of depth and richness to her work. (Perhaps her attention to such details hint at her days studying fashion design, prior to deciding on illustration and painting.) The patterns create a layered, collage effect with the elements that is really beautiful. You can read more about Sormunen in an interview at Napa Illustrations.
{Image above via Napa Illustrations}
{All illustrations via Riikka Sormunen}
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
You are so right! Her fashion background is apparent in the colors and patterns and texture. Just so beautiful! I also really love her use of line- white, black, and dotted. I’m headed over to read the interview now! Thanks for the post!
These illustrations are so gorgeous. I love seeing profiles of the people behind the art.
Canadian artists being promoted always makes me happy. And these are all gorgeous. The warm colours, the hominess, the feeling that you’re there with them, or the closeness that it’s something you could and do do yourself.
I like the warm tones she uses. Very friendly & inviting.